Numerous cities are targeted as Israel and the United States initiate an assault on Iran.
On Saturday, Israel and the United States initiated a coordinated assault on Iran, escalating military tensions in the Middle East and diminishing prospects for a diplomatic resolution to Tehran’s protracted nuclear conflict with the West.
The assault, occurring subsequent to a 12-day aerial conflict between Israel and Iran in June, follows persistent US-Israeli admonitions that they would retaliate if Iran continued its nuclear and ballistic missile initiatives.Defence Minister Israel Katz stated, “The State of Israel executed a pre-emptive strike against Iran to eliminate threats to the State of Israel.”
Iranian media reported that explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday. It stated that the office of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was involved in the attack. Reports indicate that the supreme leader was absent from Tehran during the attack and has been relocated to a secure location.
According to Iranian media, explosions were reported in the cities of Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah.
In February, the United States and Iran resumed negotiations to diplomatically resolve their longstanding dispute and prevent a potential military confrontation that could destabilize the region.
Israel, however, asserted that any agreement between the US and Iran must encompass the dismantlement of Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure, rather than merely halting the enrichment process, and urged Washington to incorporate limitations on Iran’s missile program in the negotiations.
Tehran asserted its intention to defend itself against any aggression.
It cautioned neighboring nations accommodating US forces that it would respond to American installations should Washington attack Iran.
In June, the United States participated in an Israeli military operation targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, marking the most direct American military engagement with the Islamic Republic to date.
Tehran responded by firing missiles at the U. Al Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest in the Middle East.
Western powers have cautioned that Iran’s ballistic missile program jeopardizes regional stability and has the potential to deliver nuclear weapons if advanced. Tehran refutes allegations of pursuing nuclear weapons.
Previously, amidst the looming threat of conflict between the United States and Iran, Israelis conveyed their fatigue regarding the potential for strikes on their nation, yet affirmed their readiness for a regional escalation.”The prospect of war has become, for us, a form of routine,” stated lawyer Maya Liya Cohen to AFP in the northern port city of Haifa.Regardless of the circumstances or our actions, whether related to us or not, we remain perpetually under threat,” she stated.
President Donald Trump has consistently threatened military action against Iran, while the United States is undertaking its most significant military buildup in the Middle East in decades.
In June, Israel initiated unprecedented strikes against Iran, provoking retaliatory drone and missile assaults and igniting a 12-day conflict. The United States temporarily participated in bombing Iranian nuclear facilities.
The conflict in Israel resulted in 30 fatalities and significant destruction, particularly affecting a hospital and various public institutions, including several military bases.
The persistent threat of war has compelled Cohen to implement continuous readiness. We consistently possess a secure location. Cohen clarified, “It is, in fact, our bedroom within our residence.”We possess water, an emergency kit, and consistently maintain preparedness with essential supplies readily available.
Israel Restricts Airspace and Closes Educational Institutions
Subsequent to the assault, Israel has restricted its airspace to all flights.
The Transportation Ministry states, “The public is advised to refrain from visiting airports until further notice.”
“Once the security conditions allow, the airspace will be reopened, and flights to and from Israel will recommence.” Notification will be provided 24 hours prior to the resumption of flights.
“Passengers currently overseas are advised to remain informed through the media and their airlines concerning flight schedules upon the reopening of airspace.”
Travel Advisory for Pakistani Nationals Concerning Iran
The Foreign Office issued a statement advising Pakistani nationals to refrain from all non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran for their safety and security, following the Israeli attack.
Pakistani nationals presently in Iran should exercise caution, maintain vigilance, limit non-essential travel, and maintain regular communication with the Pakistani Missions using the provided contact information.