The United States and Israel launched an efficient joint military operation against the Iranian dictatorship on Saturday, described by the Israel Defense Forces as a “comprehensive and joint operation”, in response to Tehran's refusal to dismantle its nuclear program after weeks of indirect negotiations.
The offensive, referred to by Washington as “Operation Epic Fury”, aimed at military infrastructure and strategic areas in Tehran, including areas close to the fortified complex of the tyrant Ali Khamenei.
According to reports and videos, at least seven missiles hit near the Khamenei complex in the Iranian capital, in addition to explosions occurring near the presidential palace. Sources indicated that the dictator was not in the city at the time of the attack, as he had previously been transferred to an undisclosed safe place. Bombing was also reported in other cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah. Israeli officials pointed out that the initial phase could last several days and that the daylight of the attack was intended to generate a surprise effect
.President Donald Trump stated in a public message that the operation was aimed at eliminating imminent threats against the United States, its troops and its allies. He argued that the Iranian regime represents a direct danger to international security and reiterated that Washington would not accept a nuclear agreement that would allow Tehran to continue enriching uranium. Trump also called on the Iranian population to seek political change, while recommending that civilians take cover due to the risk of new bombings
.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed the offensive and reiterated his opposition to Iran obtaining nuclear weapons. In Israel, sirens were activated across the country as a preventive measure against possible retaliation, and non-essential public activities were suspended, allowing
only emergency services.Iran responded by launching missiles against Israel and against US bases and targets in several Gulf countries. Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates confirmed that they intercepted Iranian missiles aimed at their territory, all of which are countries hosting US military
installations.In Bahrain, headquarters of the U.S. Fifth Fleet, it was reported that a service center linked to the fleet was hit by a missile attack. Qatar described the launch of ballistic missiles against its territory as a flagrant violation of its sovereignty and a dangerous escalation for
regional stability.In the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Defense stated that the country was the target of an Iranian ballistic missile attack, and that its air defenses successfully intercepted several projectiles.
News crews in Abu Dhabi and Dubai reported hearing loud explosions. Saudi Arabia, although not a direct target, condemned the Iranian attacks and expressed its willingness to support the affected countries with all available resources
