US-Israel Operation Triggers Retaliation
Israel, with support from the United States, carried out what officials described as pre-emptive strikes on Iranian targets in Tehran. The Pentagon reportedly termed the operation “Operation Epic Fury.” The strikes allegedly targeted facilities linked to Iran’s military establishment.
Iranian state-linked sources reported multiple explosions in Tehran. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over parts of the capital. Reports also suggested that senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohammad Pakpour was killed, though independent confirmation remains awaited.
Missiles Fired Towards Israel
In response, Iran launched missiles towards Israeli territory. Sirens were heard across Tel Aviv and other regions as Israeli air defence systems were activated. Authorities instructed residents to stay near designated shelters.
Hospitals in Israel reportedly shifted patients to underground facilities as a precautionary measure. Israeli defence officials stated that interception systems were working to neutralise incoming threats.
Explosions Across Gulf Capitals
Shockwaves from the conflict extended beyond Israel and Iran. Explosions were reported in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, and parts of Bahrain. Gulf countries temporarily shut their airspace following the incidents.
In Bahrain, emergency alerts were issued amid reports of a missile targeting an area near the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters. It was not immediately clear whether US military installations were directly hit.
Airspace Shut, Flights Diverted
Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace as a safety measure. Several international carriers rerouted flights, while Indian airlines also monitored the evolving situation. Flight tracking platforms showed rapid airspace clearance over the region.
The aviation disruptions added to concerns over global travel and energy supply chains, given the Gulf’s strategic importance.
Internet Blackout in Iran
Monitoring groups indicated a near-total internet shutdown in Iran during the strikes. Connectivity reportedly dropped to minimal levels nationwide, echoing similar restrictions seen during past regional conflicts.
US President’s Statement
US President Donald Trump confirmed that American forces were involved in “major combat operations” against Iranian targets. He stated that the objective was to counter what he described as imminent threats.
Washington has repeatedly warned Tehran against advancing its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Negotiations between the two nations had resumed earlier this month but reportedly failed to bridge key differences.
Netanyahu Calls It ‘Existential’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu termed the action necessary to remove what he described as an existential threat. Israel has long maintained that any diplomatic agreement with Iran must dismantle its nuclear infrastructure.
India Issues Advisory
Amid the escalating crisis, the Indian Embassy in Israel issued a public advisory urging Indian nationals to follow local safety instructions and remain close to protected spaces.
Citizens were advised to avoid non-essential travel and monitor official updates. Emergency helplines were activated for assistance.
Wider Implications
The renewed Iran-Israel confrontation threatens to destabilise an already fragile region. With US forces directly engaged and Gulf nations impacted, geopolitical risks have intensified.
Global markets, oil supply routes, and diplomatic relations now face heightened uncertainty. As the situation unfolds, international calls for restraint are expected to grow louder.
