The United States and Israel have launched what President Donald Trump described as “major combat operations” against Iran, triggering multiple explosions in Tehran and other cities across the country.
In a statement on Saturday, Trump confirmed the commencement of the military action, saying the United States had begun extensive operations following Israeli missile strikes. “Major combat operations have begun,” he said, without immediately detailing specific targets.
Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s actions were aimed at removing what he called an “existential threat”. He added that “joint action” with the United States would “create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands”.
Explosions were reported in Iran’s capital, Tehran, with state-affiliated news agencies Tasnim and IRNA confirming blasts in several districts. Reports also indicated explosions in the western and southern areas of Ilam city, while air defence systems were said to be confronting “hostile targets” in central Tehran.
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The Israeli military stated that missiles had been launched from Iran towards Israeli territory. In a further update, the army said “an additional barrage of missiles was launched toward Israel” as hostilities intensified.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed that it had launched missiles and drones towards Israel in response to the attacks. In a statement, it said: “In response to the aggression of the hostile and criminal enemy against the Islamic Republic of Iran, the first wave of extensive missile and drone attacks towards the occupied territories has begun.”
There was no immediate televised address from Iranian authorities. However, state media reported that President Masoud Pezeshkian was “safe and sound” amid the unfolding events.
Iran’s Interior Ministry urged citizens to remain calm. According to Tasnim news agency, the ministry said the “criminal enemy, once again, in violation of all international laws and during negotiations, has attacked our dear homeland again”.
The ministry added that governors across the country had been instructed to submit “prompt” reports on provincial conditions and to mobilise “all facilities to address the urgent needs of the people”.
Meanwhile, global internet monitoring organisation Netblocks reported that Iran was experiencing a near-total internet blackout. In a social media update, it said national connectivity had fallen to approximately four per cent.
“The incident comes amid US and Israeli combat operations and matches measures used during last year’s war with Israel,” Netblocks said.
In Qatar, the Interior Ministry said the security situation remained “stable and secure” despite the regional escalation. It stated that security agencies were monitoring developments to ensure “the preservation of public security and the safety of citizens, residents and visitors, and the continuity of services without interruption”.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee issued a statement thanking President Trump for launching the operation. He did not provide further operational details but expressed support for the administration’s decision.
The developments mark a significant escalation in tensions between the three countries, with missile exchanges reported and air defence systems activated as both sides issued statements outlining their positions.
