Iran–US Conflict Escalates After Israel Strikes

Tensions in the Middle East sharply escalated after Israel and the United States carried out strikes inside Iran, triggering retaliatory missile attacks across the region.

Strikes and Civilian Casualties

Iranian state media reported that an Israeli-US strike hit a girls’ school in Minab, in Hormozgan province. The reported death toll later rose to 40 students, with dozens more injured. Independent confirmation of casualty figures was not immediately available.

Iranian authorities said several senior officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, were safe following reports that leadership locations had been targeted.

Israel’s military stated that it struck “hundreds of Iranian military targets”, including missile launchers, and said it was intercepting incoming projectiles.

Iran Fires Back

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had targeted Israeli and US military assets in the region. Missile sirens were reported in Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities as air defence systems were activated.

Explosions were also reported in parts of the Gulf, including Bahrain, Doha and Abu Dhabi, according to international media reports. Bahrain began evacuating residents from areas near a US naval base.

The IRGC described US assets in the region as “legitimate targets” and vowed that operations would continue.

Regional and Global Reactions

Saudi Arabia condemned the missile attacks on Gulf states, warning of serious consequences if hostilities expand further. The European Union called for “maximum restraint” and urged all sides to protect civilians and respect international law.

Jordan’s military said it intercepted two ballistic missiles, while Kuwait stated it reserved the right to respond after missiles allegedly violated its airspace.

Major airlines including Air France and British Airways suspended flights to several Middle Eastern destinations due to security concerns. Pakistan International Airlines also halted services to parts of the region.

Evacuations and Advisories

Iran’s National Security Council reportedly advised residents of Tehran to leave the capital if possible. Internet and communication disruptions were reported in parts of the country.

The Indian Embassy in Qatar and other diplomatic missions across the region issued advisories urging citizens to remain alert and follow local safety guidelines.

Military Objectives

Israeli officials said the operation was aimed at military targets and not at regime change. However, Iranian military spokespeople warned of a “historic lesson” for Israel and the United States.

US officials, quoted by international media, indicated that further strikes could continue and described the campaign as targeting Iran’s security infrastructure.

Uncertain Path Ahead

The rapid escalation follows weeks of rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional influence. With missile exchanges widening beyond Iran and Israel, fears are growing of a broader regional conflict.

As governments urge restraint, the coming days are likely to determine whether the crisis de-escalates or intensifies further.