The United States and Israel have launched a coordinated military offensive against Iran, striking targets across the country in what officials describe as an effort to end a security threat and potentially bring about regime change. The operation, named 'Epic Fury', began with waves of air attacks early on Saturday, targeting senior Iranian officials and air defence systems, according to Israeli military sources.
In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the strikes may have killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating there are 'many signs' he is no longer alive. Satellite imagery has shown extensive damage at Khamenei's secure compound. Netanyahu also said that several leaders involved in Iran's nuclear programme had been killed and that strikes on nuclear sites would continue.
Iran retaliated throughout the day, launching attacks on Israel and US bases across the Middle East, with explosions reported in Israel, Bahrain, Syria, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Iranian officials claimed they were not surprised by the US attacks and warned of 'long-lasting and extensive' consequences, with the Revolutionary Guards threatening all US bases and interests in the region.
The UN Security Council called an emergency meeting to address the escalating situation, while world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, urged de-escalation, warning of serious consequences for peace and international security. Analysts have cautioned that the offensive risks severe regional destabilisation and could disrupt global oil markets, particularly if Iran targets the Strait of Hormuz, through which a third of worldwide oil exports by sea passed in 2025.
Reports from Iran indicate dozens of explosions across the country, including in Tehran, and Iranian state media reported that dozens of pupils were killed at a primary school in southern Iran. In Israel, emergency services reported 94 wounded, with one teenager lightly injured by shrapnel. The conflict has plunged the region into what could be weeks or months of hostilities.
