Photo: Getty Images
Israel launches preemptive strike on Iran with US support: latest Middle East escalation
Explosions in Iran: Multiple blasts reported in Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, and Kermanshah as part of Israel’s preemptive strikes targeting potential threats.
State of emergency in Israel: Schools and workplaces suspended, nationwide sirens sounding, civilian airspace closed.
US involvement: The operation was coordinated with the United States. Former President Donald Trump confirmed US strikes on Iran.
Reason for escalation: Recent nuclear deal negotiations collapsed on February 26; Iran refused concrete concessions on uranium enrichment.
Objective: Unclear if the operation aims to destroy Iran’s infrastructure or pressure Tehran to resume negotiations.
Trump’s statement
Trump described Iran as a direct threat to the US, citing its nuclear ambitions and long-range missile development. He confirmed US forces targeted Iranian missiles and naval assets.
Situation in Israel
Israel declared a national emergency, closing schools and workplaces, with citizens advised to stay near bomb shelters. Civilian airspace is closed, and authorities are preparing for a potential multi-day conflict.
Background
The joint operation, dubbed “Lion’s Roar”, was planned over several months.
Israel targeted military and regime-related infrastructure in coordination with US forces, aiming to strike early in the morning to catch Iran off guard.
The escalation follows stalled US-Iran negotiations and Iran’s refusal to limit nuclear enrichment, restrict ballistic missiles, or curb support for groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.
This marks a significant intensification of tensions in the Middle East, with Israel and the US taking coordinated military action against Iran.
