US, Israel Launch Strikes on Iran in Major Escalation in Region
US, Israel Launch Strikes on Iran in Major Escalation in Region
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The United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran early Saturday, marking a significant escalation after weeks of negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program, CNN reported.
US President Donald Trump confirmed in a video posted on social media that the United States had begun what he described as a “massive and ongoing” military campaign aimed at preventing Iran from threatening US national security interests. He said the operation sought to target Iran’s missile capabilities.
A US official told CNN that the strikes were substantial. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the action as a “preemptive strike” against Iran. Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency in anticipation of potential retaliation, closed its airspace, and limited activities to essential services.
According to Iran’s state-run Fars News Agency, explosions were reported in Tehran as well as in Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. Videos verified by CNN showed smoke rising over the capital. Casualties have not yet been confirmed.
The strikes follow recent US-Iran diplomatic talks in Geneva concerning Tehran’s nuclear activities. US military assets had been positioned in the region in recent weeks amid rising tensions.
