Peregraf – A major joint Israeli and American military offensive against Iran began early this morning, targeting Tehran, the Iranian Presidency, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s residence, and several key government ministries.
Israeli officials stated that the first phase of the operation will last four days, with the entire Iranian regime as the primary target. Domestic precautions have been implemented in Israel: schools have been closed, and citizens have been urged to seek shelter in anticipation of potential Iranian missile retaliations.
Key Iranian cities reportedly hit include Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, Kermanshah, Qom, and Tabriz. In response to the attack, Iran closed its airspace, and neighboring Iraq also suspended flights.
Iranian Retaliation
Iran has launched counterstrikes targeting U.S. bases across the region. Missile attacks reportedly struck the U.S. Consulate in Erbil and a nearby U.S. military base near Erbil Airport, though local air defenses intercepted the missiles. Other U.S. installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, and Qatar were also reportedly targeted.
Additionally, positions of the Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Forces) in Jurf al-Sakhar, Babylon were struck, causing casualties and injuries. The full extent of the damage from these retaliatory strikes remains unclear.
Statements from the U.S.
In his first statement following the offensive, Donald Trump, President of the United States, said: "A large-scale attack on Iran has begun. Our goal is to eliminate Iranian threats and defend the American people. The Iranian regime consists of a group of very cruel and evil individuals."
Trump called on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and all Iranian armed forces to lay down their weapons, warning:
"Lay down your arms and we will protect you; otherwise, death awaits you."
Addressing the Iranian public, Trump added: "Freedom is on its way. Stay in your homes. Once we have taken control of your government, we will hand it over to you."
The situation remains fluid, with regional tensions rising sharply as both sides exchange strikes. The international community is monitoring developments closely, as the offensive has the potential to escalate into a broader regional conflict.