The United States and Israel launched coordinated “major combat operations” against Iran early Saturday, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had ruled the country for nearly 37 years, according to Iranian state media. President Trump announced the strikes hours earlier, warning that bombing campaigns would continue “as long as necessary to achieve peace” and urging Iranians to “take over your government” after the operation.
The attacks follow the collapse of recent US-Iran talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme and mark the second time in under a year that American forces have struck Iran, with previous strikes targeting nuclear facilities. Israel joined the operation citing longstanding security concerns, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framing the action as an opportunity for the Iranian people to “take their destiny into their own hands.”
Targets and Impact
Explosions were reported across multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Qom, Isfahan, Kermanshah, and Karaj. Videos show strikes near Khamenei’s office, the presidential palace, and the Ministry of Intelligence. Iranian media confirmed the deaths of top officials, including Khamenei, Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani, and Major General Mohammad Pakpour. Satellite imagery also indicated extensive damage to government compounds.
Casualties are significant: HRANA, a rights group, reported at least 133 civilians killed, while the Red Crescent cited over 200 deaths and more than 700 injured nationwide. Explosions at a southern Iran school killed at least 115 people, including children.
Iran’s Retaliation
In response, Iran launched missiles and drones targeting U.S. bases in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE, as well as military sites in Israel. Iranian missiles struck Tel Aviv, Beit Shemesh, and Dubai, causing civilian casualties. Gulf states reported successful interceptions, though one civilian was killed in Abu Dhabi. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards vowed to continue their military efforts despite the loss of Khamenei.
US Involvement and Debate
While the US has not deployed ground troops, it has carried out extensive aerial and naval operations from bases across the Middle East and aircraft carriers in the region. Three US service members were killed and five injured during the operation, according to US Central Command.
Trump’s unilateral decision to launch the strikes has sparked debate in Washington over war powers. While the Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war, the president has broad discretion for military action. Congressional reactions have largely fallen along partisan lines, with most Republicans supporting the strikes and Democrats calling for formal approval.
Wider Implications
The conflict threatens global oil supply, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20% of daily oil production. Shipping companies have halted transit in the area, raising concerns over fuel prices worldwide. Analysts warn that the situation could escalate further depending on Iran’s response and regional stability.
Summary
- US and Israel launched strikes on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Khamenei and other officials.
- Retaliatory attacks targeted US bases and Israeli cities.
- Hundreds of civilians reportedly killed or injured in Iran.
- US military involvement limited to air and naval operations; no ground troops deployed.
- Debate over constitutional war powers continues in the US.
- The conflict has global economic implications, including potential oil price increases.
This rapidly evolving situation continues to unfold across the Middle East, with international attention focused on both humanitarian and geopolitical consequences.
