The United States and Israel have launched missile strikes on Iran.
Initially thought to be an Israeli-only operation, it turned out that the United States is participating in these attacks and it is a combined US-Israeli mission.
Israeli defence minister Israel Katz said the strike was part of a move to remove threats against the State of Israel.
He also announced a special and permanent state of emergency across the country, warning that Iran could respond with drones and ballistic missiles.
In Iran, multiple explosions are being reported in Tehran, the capital. At least three blasts were heard by citizens in the downtown area, with reports that several missiles struck the Republic district of the city.
Additional explosions were later reported in the northern and eastern parts of Tehran.
The number of casualties and extent of damage in Iran is not yet known.
Meanwhile in Israel, sirens blared in several areas as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Home Front Command issued a proactive alert to civilians. They are being urged to ensure they know what the optimal protected shelter near them is and avoid non-essential travel due to the security situation.
However, the military clarified that, for now, there was no immediate instruction to enter shelters.
The strikes come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear programme and preventing a broader conflict.
Negotiations were expected to continue next week, although US President Donald Trump said on Friday he was not thrilled with the progress of the talks, despite reports that Iran had made some concessions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly warned about what he describes as the growing threat posed by Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities.
He has also voiced strong opposition to any agreement that focuses solely on Iran’s nuclear programme without addressing its missile arsenal.
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