Welcome to our ongoing live coverage of the US-Israeli war on Iran, which is significantly impacting the region and the global economy. Here are the latest developments from the conflict.
Military Incidents and Rescue Efforts
US Central Command has confirmed it is conducting rescue operations after losing a KC-135 military refuelling aircraft in what it describes as friendly airspace in Iraq. According to a statement, the crash was not due to hostile or friendly fire, and rescue efforts are ongoing following an incident involving two planes, with the second landing safely. A US official, speaking anonymously to the Associated Press, reported that at least five crew members were onboard the crashed aircraft.
Political Statements and Threats
US President Donald Trump has declared that the war on Iran is moving along very rapidly and doing very well. He labelled Iran as a nation of terror and hate, asserting it is paying a big price. In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a veiled threat during his first press conference since the war began, stating he wouldn't take out life insurance policies on Iran's new supreme leader or the leader of Hezbollah. Netanyahu defended the joint military assault with the US, aiming to halt Iran's nuclear and ballistic projects from going underground, and claimed some Israeli strikes have killed top Iranian nuclear scientists.
Regional Attacks and Defence Responses
Israel has launched fresh strikes on Tehran and Beirut, escalating tensions. In Iraq, a French soldier was killed in an attack in Erbil, within the autonomous Kurdistan region, marking the first French military death of the war, with several others wounded. The French army noted that soldiers were engaged in training with Iraqi partners during a drone attack. Meanwhile, a US defence official told BBC News that a base in Erbil housing UK and US forces came under attack from an Iranian drone, resulting in no significant injuries, with all American soldiers remaining on duty and no British soldiers harmed.
Maritime Security and Economic Measures
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent informed Sky News that the US Navy, potentially with an international coalition, plans to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz once it achieves complete control of the skies and degrades Iran's missile rebuilding capabilities. This move aims to secure critical shipping routes amid the conflict.
Sports and Diplomatic Implications
In a controversial statement, President Trump commented on the Iranian national football team's participation in the upcoming World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. He said they are welcome but added it might not be appropriate for their own life and safety, without elaborating on the risks.
Missile and Drone Interceptions
Regional defence forces have been active in intercepting threats. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting a drone heading towards the Shaybah oil field, along with a ballistic missile and three drones launched towards its eastern region. Qatar's defence ministry stated it intercepted two ballistic missiles, one cruise missile, and multiple drones from Iran. Additionally, a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit an open area in central Israel, causing no injuries, according to the IDF's Home Front Command as quoted by Haaretz.
This conflict continues to evolve, with significant implications for regional stability and international relations. Stay tuned for further updates.
