Israeli Forces Hit Iranian Defence Sites
The Israeli military announced it carried out a “broad strike” on defence systems in western Iran early Saturday, marking a sharp escalation in regional tensions. The attack followed joint US-Israeli airstrikes, intensifying a conflict that has been simmering for weeks as Washington and Tehran negotiate over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Iran Retaliates Across the Gulf
In response, Iran launched attacks on US military installations across the Gulf, striking every country in the region except Oman. US President Donald Trump, in a social media video, framed the strikes as part of a wider conflict with Iran dating back to 1979. He urged Iranians to take cover during the attacks and later encouraged them to rise up and overthrow their government, calling it a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Global Concern and Travel Disruptions
The escalating violence has drawn urgent attention from world leaders. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for restraint, and the UN Security Council is set to meet to address the crisis. Meanwhile, several countries in the region closed their airspace, causing flight cancellations and forcing planes headed to Tel Aviv and Dubai to divert or return to their departure points.
