New Delhi: Israel launched major airstrikes on Iran early Saturday, targeting multiple cities including Tehran, in a sharp escalation of hostilities.
According to Reuters, citing sources, Iran’s Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohammad Pakpour were killed in the strikes. There was no immediate official confirmation from Tehran.
Earlier, Iranian news agencies reported that a missile struck a school in southern Iran, killing 40 students and injuring 45 others.
US-Israel joint operation
Israel carried out airstrikes on at least 10 Iranian cities in coordination with the United States. US President Donald Trump released a video statement saying the action was taken to protect American citizens.
Israel has named its campaign against Iran “Lion’s Roar”.
Iran launches retaliation
In response, Iran fired around 400 missiles at Israel and reportedly targeted US military bases in Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Iranian strikes also reportedly hit Dubai, the UAE’s most populous city.
The escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme. Trump had recently warned of possible military action, stating that US forces were working to neutralise Iran’s missile capabilities and dismantle its missile programme.
The developments have significantly heightened fears of a broader regional conflict in West Asia.
