Israeli Military Targets Iranian Defence Systems
The Israeli military says it has carried out a “broad strike” against defence systems in western Iran, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The operation follows joint US-Israeli air strikes launched early Saturday, which sharply intensified already fragile tensions in the region.
Tensions had been building for weeks as Washington and Tehran attempted to negotiate a deal aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear programme. However, the latest military action appears to have pushed the standoff into open confrontation.
Iran Retaliates Across the Gulf
In response to the strikes, Iran launched attacks on American military assets across the Gulf region, targeting bases in multiple countries — with the exception of Oman. The retaliation signals a widening conflict that now directly involves several nations.
US President Donald Trump, speaking in a video posted on social media, framed the strikes as part of a broader grievance with Iran that stretches back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution. He urged Iranian citizens to seek shelter during the attacks and later called on them to rise up against their government, describing the moment as a rare opportunity for change.
Global Concern and Disrupted Air Travel
World leaders have reacted with alarm. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for restraint, and the UN Security Council is set to convene to address the crisis.
Meanwhile, the fallout has disrupted regional air travel. Several countries have closed their airspace, leading to widespread flight cancellations. Aircraft heading to cities such as Tel Aviv and Dubai were diverted or forced to turn back, underscoring the growing instability across the Middle East.
