Iranian missile strikes IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv as Israel braced for another round of attacks
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By ELENA SALVONI and BRITTANY CHAIN FOR DAILYMAIL.COM and NOOR QURASHI and OLIVIA ALLHUSEN and KATHERINE LAWTON
Published: | Updated:
Iran has struck Israeli military sites, including the IDF headquarters, as Tel Aviv braces for another round of attacks.
At least three people have been killed and dozens more have been wounded in the Iranian strikes on Israel as 'painful revenge' for a series of IDF attacks on the heart of Iran’s nuclear program and its armed forces.
Social media video showed interceptor missiles blasting off before a flash, a boom and an explosion of a warhead incoming.
One missile that breached the Jewish state's air defenses was seen hitting an area where several IDF facilities are located, including its main command center, their equivalent to the Pentagon.
The Israel Defence Forces had warned its attack on Tehran could last up to two weeks as Iranian military commanders and top officials were blown up in their headquarters and homes in a coordinated strike last night.
Operation Rising Lion targeted military sites in Iran as well as nuclear facilities in a devastating wave of air strikes - escalating fears the Middle East is on the brink of all-out war.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the sophisticated operation targeted an Iranian nuclear facility in Natanz as well as the country's ballistic missile program.
Iran vowed to enact 'painful revenge' after the strikes, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning Israel will face 'severe punishment'.
Washington distanced itself from the strikes and warned Iran not to attack US bases in the region in retaliation, while Tehran warned that the US would pay 'a heavy price' along with Israel.
Follow along for updates.
Iranian missile strikes IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv
The headquarters of the Israeli Defense Forces in Tel Aviv were hit by Iranian missile strikes late Friday night.
Social media videos - which have been verified by the New York Times - show interceptor missiles blasting off before a flash, a boom and an explosion of a warhead incoming.
One missile breached the Jewish state's air defenses is seen hitting an area where several IDF facilities are located, including its main command center, their equivalent to the Pentagon.
Fire in the sky: Iran launches retaliatory strikes on Israel
Iran missile strikes have killed three people in Israel, wounded dozens
At least three people have been killed and dozens more have been wounded in the Iranian strikes on Israel, after a series of IDF attacks on the heart of Iran’s nuclear program and its armed forces.
Iran launched waves of missiles at Israel late Friday and early Saturday.
A hospital in Tel Aviv treated seven people wounded in the second Iranian barrage; all but one of them had light injuries. Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services said they were injured when a projectile hit a building in the city. A spokesperson for Beilinson Hospital said one woman was killed.
Hours later, an Iranian missile struck near homes in the central Israeli city of Rishon Lezion, killing two people and injuring 19, according to Israel’s paramedic service Magen David Adom. Israel’s Fire and Rescue service said four homes were severely damaged.
Rocket hitting central Israel kills one, injures over 20 more
A person has been killed and over 20 more were wounded after an Iranian missile hit residences just south of Tel Aviv in Rishon Lezion, according to Israel's emergency services.
CNN reported that paramedics are on the scene searching through extensive damage and several people trapped underneath rubble.
Rami Musher, deputy director of the Ayalon region’s emergency services, said: 'This is a difficult and complex scene and we are still continuing to scan and ensure that there are no additional victims inside the buildings.'
The death would become the 2nd Israeli victim of Iranian attacks after a woman in the city of Ramat Gan was killed earlier.
Woman becomes first victim of Iranian assault on Israel
A woman struck by a fragment of a weapon became the first victim of Iran's assault on Israel.
Police confirmed the woman was in the city of Ramat Gan, which is just east of Tel Aviv. She was pronounced dead on the scene in the Dan area of Ramat Gan.
Several others were injured and had to be removed from the area. Police are still trying to clear the scene, CNN reported.
Footage shows Iranian air defence systems activated over Tehran
Footage shows destruction caused by Iran's strikes on Israel
Damage in Ramat Gan
New images show damage caused by Iranian missile strikes in Ramat Gan, near Tel Aviv, where several cars and buildings were destroyed.
Members of the Israeli security forces inspect a site hit by a missile fired from Iran at the Ramat Gan area in Tel Aviv, Israel
Pictured: A damaged carat the Ramat Gan area in Tel Aviv, Israel, Israel
Pictured: The Israeli army evacuate residents from damaged buildings following Iran's retaliatory missile strikes against Israel, which destroyed numerous buildings at the Ramat Gan area in Tel Aviv
'Time to stop' escalation, UN secretary general says
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called on Iran and Israel to stop the 'escalation'.
'Missile fuselage’ burns in Tel Aviv following Iranian strikes
Footage of fires at Tehran’s Mehrabad International Airport
Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency has now published footage purportedly showing fires raging at the city’s Mehrabad International Airport.
The video shows thick smoke billowing into the night sky.
Breaking:Tehran's Mehrabad airport ablaze
Fire and heavy smoke billowed from Mehrabad airport in the Iranian capital early Saturday, an AFP journalist said, as local media reported a blast in the area.
The local ISNA news agency shared a video showing columns of heavy smoke rising from the area of the airport in western Tehran while Mehr news agency reported a 'blast' there.
Breaking:Explosions reported in Tehran
Iranian state-run Tasnim News Agency reports that 'several explosions' were heard in Tehran a short while ago.
According to the unconfirmed reports the explosions were heard near Tehran's Mehrabad Airport.
Footage published by Tasnim shows smoke rising into the night sky over the city.
The cause of the explosions is not immediately clear.
Rocket trails above Netanya, Israel
This picture shows rocket trails in the sky above Netanya this evening
'Dozens of missiles' fired at Israel by Iran in latest attack
The Israeli military military said 'dozens' of missiles had been fired towards Israel in the past hour in the latest salvo from Iran.
'Some of the missiles were intercepted. Search and rescue forces are currently operating in a number of locations across the country in which reports of fallen projectiles were received,' it added.
Israel Home Front Command says citizens can leave shelters
The Israeli military's Home Front Command said that citizens can leave shelters across the country but to remain near them after the army intercepted a new wave of Iranian missile attacks on Israel.
'It is now permitted to leave protected spaces in all areas across the country and to remain near them,' the Home Front Command said.
Pictured: Missiles over Jerusalem just minutes ago
Israeli public ordered to return to shelters
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) just ordered the public to enter shelter spaces and stay there until further notice, the BBC reported.
'A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel,' a statement read.
'Leaving the protected space is only permitted following an explicit directive.'
Pictured: Iranians gather to celebrate ballistic missile retaliation against Israel
Fresh blasts over Tehran
Tehran has reportedly just come under a fresh attack from Israel after launching ballistic missiles on Tel Aviv - with Benjamin Netantahu warning more is 'on the way'.
Iran's state media said its missile defence system has been activated.
New pictures show the Israeli security forces inspecting a site hit by a missile fired from Iran, in Ramat Gan, on the outskirts of Tel Aviv.
Sirens are activated in Eilat, Israel
Sirens have been blasted in Israel due to the 'intrusion of a hostile aircraft' in Eilat, a southern port city, the IDF have said.
The Israeli military added it is looking into the details.
Iran's airstrikes left 34 injured, emergency services say
A total of 34 people in Gush Dan were injured in tonight's strikes, according to Israel's emergency services.
Magen David Adom said everyone injured has been transported to hospital.
They include a critically injured woman and one seriously injured man, as well as two people who were moderately injured.
Pictured: Iranians celebrate in Tehran
Pictures show Iranians celebrating on the streets of Tehran following Iran's missile attack on Tel Aviv
Israel rescuers say 34 injured in Iran missile attacks, including one in critical condition
Israel's emergency service said on Friday that at least 34 people had been injured, including a woman in a critical condition, after Iran fired dozens of missiles at Israel.
'This evening, Magen David Adom received reports of casualties following rocket strikes in the Gush Dan region,' it said.
'Large MDA forces were immediately dispatched ... they provided lifesaving medical care and evacuated 34 injured to hospitals,' MDA said.
Iran says 78 killed, 320 wounded in Israeli strikes
Israel's strikes on Iran have killed 78 people, including top military commanders, and wounded more than 320, the Islamic republic's ambassador to the United Nations said on Friday.
'So far, 78 people, including senior military officials, have been martyred and over 320 other injured. The overwhelming majority of them (are) civilians, including women and children,' Iran's ambassador to the UN Amir Iravani told the Security Council.
Breaking:Blasts heard in Iran
Local media has reported explosions being heard in Iran's capital, Tehran.
State media reports that Tehran's air defence system has been activated to counter Israeli strikes.
Tel Aviv residents taking cover
Close call: Man nearly struck by missile in Tel Aviv
In pictures: Aftermath of Iran's attack on Israel
Smoke billows following missile attack from Iran on Israel, at Tel Aviv
Fire and smoke rise from a building, reportedly hit by a missile fired from Iran, in central Tel Aviv
An explosion is seen during a missile attack in Tel Aviv, Israel
Rescue and security personnel work at an impact site following missile attack from Iran on Israel
Rescue and security personnel attend a wounded person at an impact site following missile attack
An injured woman is evacuated on a wheelchair in an area hit by a missile fired from Iran, in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv
Israelis react at an impact site following a missile attack from Iran on Israel, at Tel Aviv
An explosion is seen during a missile attack in Tel Aviv
Netanyahu speaks amid Iranian strikes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on Iranians Friday to unite against what he described as an 'evil and oppressive regime', telling them Israel was engaged in 'one of the greatest military operations in history'.
'The time has come for the Iranian people to unite around its flag and its historic legacy, by standing up for your freedom from the evil and oppressive regime,' Netanyahu said in a video statement after Israel struck over 200 military and nuclear sites in the Islamic republic.
'We are in the midst of one of the greatest military operations in history, Operation Rising Lion,' he added.
'As we achieve our objective, we are also clearing the path for you to achieve your freedom,' he said, referring to Israeli strikes that hit targets across Iran, including nuclear sites, killing several top military commanders and nuclear scientists.
'The regime does not know what hit them, or what will hit them. It has never been weaker,' Netanyahu said in his video published shortly after a salvo of Iranian missiles reached Israel.
'Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you,' he said, adding: 'This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard.'
Netanyahu also promised that 'more is on the way', having said earlier that Israel's attack on Iran would 'continue for as many days as it takes'.
Iran called the attack 'a declaration of war' and threatened to retaliate by opening 'the gates of hell' on Israel.
It first sent about 100 drones towards Israel, many of which were intercepted before reaching the country.
The drones were followed by dozens of missiles, some of which caused physical damage in Israeli cities, and injured at least seven people, according to first responders.
Iranian air force base destroyed, says IDF
The Israeli military says it destroyed 'dozens of targets' belonging to Iran's air defence system this evening.
It adds that, earlier today, the IDF attacked Iranian air force bases at Hamadan and Tabriz, in the west of the country. It says the Tabriz base was destroyed as a result of the attack.
'The IDF is prepared to continue to act as necessary,' it adds.
40 people receiving hospital treatment in Israel
A total of 40 people are being treated in Israeli hospitals after the recent strikes - two are in critical condition, reports the BBC.
The injuries are varied, and include shrapnel damage, smoke inhalation and shock.
Pictured: Recue operation underway
A rescue personal carries a woman at an impact site following missile attack from Iran on Israel
Rescue personnel evacuate a wounded woman at an impact site
Rescue and security personnel attend a wounded person
Pictured: Israelis take cover in bomb shelters
'We will bring you to ruin', says Iran
Caitlyn Jenner, CNN's Scott Jennings stuck in Israel with other stars amid fears of nuclear war: 'Not getting out'
Iranian ballistic missiles rain down on Tel Aviv with skies ablaze after Iran vowed 'revenge' on Israel for nuclear site attacks
Iran fired less than 100 missiles, says Israel
Iran fired less than 100 missiles in tonight's attack and most were intercepted or fell short, Israeli military say.
'A limited number of buildings were affected, some of them as a result of shrapnel from the interception operations,' the Israeli military's Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, said in a post on X
Netanyahu tells Iranians 'more is on the way' after Israeli strikes
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday in a message to Iranians that Israel would press its campaign after launching waves of strikes at military and nuclear sites.
'In the past 24 hours, we have taken out top military commanders, senior nuclear scientists, the Islamic regime's most significant enrichment facility and a large portion of its ballistic missile arsenal," Netanyahu said in a video statement.
He added: 'More is on the way. The regime does not know what hit them, or what will hit them. It has never been weaker.'
Medics say 22 people injured in Iranian strikes
Medics said. 22 people were injured in tonight’s Iranian missile strikes on Israel.
Two were said to be a serious condition, two in a moderate condition and the rest lightly hurt or suffering 'acute anxiety', Israeli media reported.
Breaking:Israel's residents can leave shelters but should stay close, military says
The IDF has told civilians they can leave bomb shelters but should remain near until further notice , Israeli media reported.'
US helped stop Iranian missiles
The US military has helped shoot down Iranian missiles that were headed toward Israel, two US officials have told Reuters.
The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, did not provide further information, including whether fighter jets or warships carried out the defensive operation.
Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel aims to 'thwart' Iranian regime
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has just posted a statement on 'Operation Rising Lion' and says the objective of his country's recent attacks on Iran is to 'thwart the Islamic regime's nuclear and ballistic missile threat to us'.
Iran crossed 'red lines', says Israeli Defence Minister
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said that Iran crossed 'red lines' today when its missiles targeted civilian areas after Israel launched a wave of attacks on the Islamic republic.
'Iran has crossed red lines by daring to fire missiles at civilian population centres in Israel,' Katz said in a statement.
'We will continue to defend the citizens of Israel and ensure that the Ayatollah regime pays a very heavy price for its heinous actions.'
Pictured: A building in Tel Aviv following Iran's attack
Fire and smoke rise from a building, reportedly hit by a missile fired from Iran, in central Tel Aviv
People ‘trapped in building’ following Iranian missile attack
Israel's firefighting service said its teams were responding to several 'major' incidents resulting from an Iranian missile attack, including efforts to rescue people trapped in a high-rise building.
'Firefighting crews are handling several major incidents, mainly in the Dan region' around Tel Aviv, a statement said, adding that 'firefighters are working in a high-rise building to rescue trapped individuals and extinguish a fire, as well as responding to two additional destruction sites.'
Pictured: damaged building in Tel Aviv
A residential building in Tel Aviv was hit by an Iranian missile this evening
Iran will pay ‘unbearable price’ for strikes on Israel, official says
Israel has vowed to strike back against Iran for tonight’s ballistic missile attacks, Hebrew media reported.
'Iran will pay an unbearably heavy price for its fire at civilian areas,' an Israeli political source was quoted by Channel 12 as saying.
The Times of Israel newspaper reported that the comment seemed to refer to potential Israeli attacks on Iranian energy and infrastructure sites.
Iranian media reports two Israeli fighter jets shot down
Iranian state media says at least two Israeli fighter jets have been shot down over Iran.
This information is unconfirmed.
Footage shows the skies above Tel Aviv ablaze as Iran strikes Israel
Seven sites hit in Tel Aviv
At least seven sites in Tel Aviv and its surrounding area were hit in Iran’s missile attack, an Israeli military official has said.
The extent of the damage is unclear at this stage.
The below image shows an explosion during a missile attack in Tel Aviv
Rescuers say 7 injured in strikes on Israel
Israeli rescuers said that seven people were injured on Friday in the centre of the country, shortly after Iran fired a salvo of missiles at Israel.
Speaking on Israel's Channel 12, Eli Bin, the spokesman for the Magen David Adom rescue service, said that seven people were lightly injured in central Israel.
Iran claims Israeli Air Force pilot captured
Iran's State TV claimed a female Israeli Air Force pilot was captured after her fighter jet was downed, but the IDF has denied this.
This is yet to be confirmed.
Trump and Starmer agree on 'importance of diplomacy' to solve conflict
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump spoke on Friday evening and 'agreed on the importance of diplomacy and dialogue' to resolve the mounting conflict between Iran and Israel, Downing Street said.
Iran will 'inflict heavy blows' on Israel
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Israel has initiated a war and that Tehran will not allow it to conduct 'hit and run' attacks without consequences.
He posted the statement on X as 'hundreds' of missiles have been fired at Israel, this evening.
'The Zionist regime (Israel) will not remain unscathed from the consequences of its crime,' Khamenei said.
He also said: 'The Iranian nation must be guaranteed that our response will not be half-measured'.
He added Iran will 'inflict heavy blows' on Israel.
Video shows retaliatory strikes on Israel
Iran launched 'hundreds of missiles' towards Israel
Hundreds of ballistic missiles were launched from Iran towards Israel, marking the start of Tehran's response to intensive Israeli strikes, Iranian media reported.
Breaking:Huge plumes of smoke seen rising over Tel Aviv skyline
Huge plumes of smoke have been seen rising into the night sky over Tel Aviv in Israel.
The smoke is dwarfing the skyscrapers in the city.
It's not clear if this is from the missiles, or the interceptions.
Updates to follow.
Breaking:Missiles launched by Iran to Israel, says Israeli military
The Israeli military says it identified missiles launched by Iran a short while ago, and its defence systems have been activated.
The public have been told to enter shelters until further notice, the statement adds.
An Israeli military spokesman said: 'Defence systems are working to intercept the threat.'
Air raid sirens are sounding in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Reuters reports.
Televised press conference cut short by Iranian attack
An incoming Iranian attack on Israel cut short a live televised briefing by the IDF’s spokesman Effie Defrin this evening.
'The live feed of BG Defrin’s statement was cut due to an incoming Iranian attack on central Israel,' an Israeli official said.
Before the conference abruptly ended Defrin said that Iran is capable of 'significantly' harming Israel, whose forces earlier struck dozens of targets across the Islamic republic.
Brits told to avoid non-essential travel to Israel
British nationals must avoid travelling to Israel and Palestinian territories unless it is essential, the Foreign Office has warned.
Posting on X, Foreign Secretary David Lammy says that 'the safety and security of British nationals is our top priority.
'The UK is advising British nationals to avoid all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.'
Israel says it has carried out more strikes on nuclear plant in Iran
The Israeli military said it struck on Friday Iran's nuclear facility in Isfahan as it pressed on with its strikes on the Islamic republic.
'I can now confirm that we struck the nuclear facility in Isfahan. The operation is still ongoing,' military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin told journalists.
The site was not hit during earlier Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, marking an expansion of the military operation launched this morning.
The IDF claims the site has been undergoing a process of 'reconversion of enriched uranium'.
This, it adds, is the next stage after uranium enrichment in the process of producing nuclear weapons.
'The attack destroyed a structure for producing metallic uranium, infrastructure for converting enriched uranium, laboratories and other infrastructure,' it says.
Israel military confirms it has carried out strikes on nuclear plant in Iran
Following reports of explosions in Iran, a spokesman for the Israeli Defence Forces says they have carried out strikes against Iran's nuclear plant in Isfahan.
President Trump's dilemma
US President Donald Trump faces a dilemma: While he says he didn't officially approve Israel's missile attacks, the Republican has called them 'excellent'.
Critics say Mr Trump's messaging has been inconsistent as he holds out hope that military action jolts Iran into making new concessions.
Putin the mediator
It has emerged after Benjamin Netanyahu and Vladimir Putin spoke on the phone that the Russian President reportedly said he is 'ready' to mediate between Israel and Iran.
Iran is one of Russia's few strategic allies.
Palestinian children injured by Yemen missile
Three children were injured by shrapnel after a missile was launched from Yemen and landed near the West Bank.
The Palestinian Red Crescent said: 'Three children, aged six, seven and 12, were injured by shrapnel from a missile that fell in the town of Sair near Hebron.
It comes as the Israeli military confirmed a 'missile launched from Yemen fell in the area of Hebron, no interceptors were launched'.
The Houthis in Yemen have regularly launched missiles at Israel with any damage to Palestinians in the West Bank most certainly being an error.
Iran Supreme Leader: 'We won't hold back'
Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei warned Israel will not 'remain unscathed', and that Iran's response will go all-in.
He said in a public address: 'Our armed forces will strike with strength and cripple the vile Zionist regime.
'They won’t escape unscathed.
'The Iranian people can be sure there’ll be no holding back.'
Putin weighs in with his thoughts
Russia's Vladimir Putin has expressed his condolences to the people of Iran and condemned the actions of Israel.
It comes after he had a phone call with both Israel and Iran.
David Lammy: The Middle East is facing a 'moment of grave peril'
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said, speaking to broadcasters about Israel's strikes on Iran: 'I spoke to my Iranian counterpart today to urge restraint at this time and calm. I recognise that this is a moment of grave peril in the Middle East.
Mr Lammy stressed the UK was not involved in the Israeli action, saying: 'This is a unilateral act by Israel.'
Israeli military tells citizens public gatherings should be minimised
Israel has warned its citizens to stay close to bomb shelters and minimise public gatherings.
In a new update, the Israeli Defence Forces says residents across Israel are instructed to stay close to protected spaces and minimise movement in open areas.
Top Iranian military figures dead after blistering attack
After Israel's latest blistering attack on the heart of Iran's nuclear and military structure a number of top generals and scientists are reported dead.
The operation has raised the potential for all-out war between the countries
Starmer urges Israel to de-escalate
Israel and Iran must de-escalate and work towards a 'diplomatic resolution'', Sir Keir Starmer has told his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu amid mounting tensions in the Middle East.
Sir Keir spoke with Mr Netanyahu as a fresh wave of Israeli strikes targeting Tehran began, according to media reports.
Pictures show aftermath of Tehran strike
Pictures show the aftermath of Israel's strikes on Tehran. Emergency services are currently on-site and assessing the damage.
Iranian media says nuclear site south of Tehran targeted
The IRGC-affiliated Fars News Agency has stated two explosions were heard several minutes ago near the Fordow nuclear site.
Fordow is located south of Tehran and about 20 miles northeast of the central city of Qom. It aroun 100m underground.
It comes after earlier reports of people hearing explosions near the site.
The International Atomic Energy Agency says levels of radiation outside that facility have remained unchanged, but the radioactive contamination inside can be managed with 'appropriate protective measures'.
Iran appoints a new Commander-in-Chief
The death of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' previous chief, Hossein Salami, has prompted the force to appoint a new one.
Iran is yet to share the identity of the leader.
Israel reports 'sirens' in Jerusalem after 'projectile fire from Yemen'
The Israel Defence Forces says sirens are sounding in Jerusalem 'after projectile fire from Yemen'.
Booms are also said to have been reported over Jerusalem, similar to those heard during past interceptions.
Israel claims Iran planned to 'invade from all sides'
Danny Danon, Israel's ambassador to the UN, justified his country's strikes on Iran earlier by claiming the threat Tehran posed 'took a dramatic turn' in recent months.
He also claimed Tehran was planning a 'surprise attack' on Israel, but did not provide any evidence for this.
Danon claimed this would have been undertaken in coordination with Iran's various proxy groups in the region who 'planned to invade from all sides with thousands of terrorists'.
Video footage shows fresh explosions across Iran
The Israeli Air Force said in a post on X that it is continuing 'to attack missile launchers and infrastructure' in Iran.
Videos are circulating online and on some Iranian media outlets that show Tehran being targeted for the second time today.
Citizens have also reported the explosions and fresh footage has appeared to show smoke pluming in the distance.
Up to 18 people are reported dead from Israeli strikes on Iran's northwest.
Trump tells Iran to make deal or face 'more brutal' attacks
US President Donald Trump has urged Iran to make a deal or face 'even more brutal' attacks, while keeping the door open for negotiations after Israel's deadly strikes on Tehran's nuclear facilities.
Trump appeared to be sitting on the fence, a day after having publicly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold off striking Iran only to see the US ally go ahead anyway.
Prime Minister 're-iterates need for de-escalation'
Sir Keir Starmer 'reiterated the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution' after Israel’s strikes on Iran in a call with Benjamin Netanyahu, Downing Street said.
Trump now faces his biggest test yet to avoid WWIII
President Donald Trump moved quickly to respond to Israel's series of military strikes against Iran as he tries to avoid World War III.
He spoke with several top American news anchors the morning after the strikes, describing the attack as a success.
'I think it's been excellent,' he told ABC News anchor Jon Karl. 'We gave them a chance and they didn't take it. They got hit hard, very hard. They got hit about as hard as you're going to get hit. And there's more to come. a lot more.'
The president monitored the ongoing attacks overnight from the White House and posted on Friday morning that Iran still had the chance to 'make a deal.'
Read more here from our colleagues at Dailymail.com
Trump - I tried to save Iran from humiliation and death
President Donald Trump told Reuters in a phone interview that it was unclear if Iran still has a nuclear program following Israeli strikes on the country.
Trump said the US still has nuclear talks planned with Iran on Sunday but that he is not sure if they will still take place. He said it was not too late for Iran to make a deal.
'I tried to save Iran humiliation and death,' Trump said.
He said he is not concerned about a regional war breaking out as a result of Israel's strikes.
Netanyahu - Israel expects several waves of Iranian attacks
Netanyahu added he expected 'several waves of Iranian attacks' in response to Israeli strikes on military and nuclear sites in the Islamic republic.
Netanyahu - 'What will the Americans do? I leave that to Trump'
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had informed the United States about its plans to attack Iran before carrying them out.
Speaking in a recorded video message, Netanyahu said:
I leave the American position to the Americans. We updated them ahead of time. They knew about the attack. What will they do now? I leave that to President (Donald) Trump. He makes his decisions independently.
I am not going to speak for him (Trump). He does that very convincingly and assertively. He said that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons, they cannot have enrichment capabilities.
Israeli ambassador - Decision to act was not made lightly
Israel's ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, said his country's overnight airstrikes were 'necessary action' with the threat from Iran taking a 'dramatic turn' in recent months.
The decision to act last night was not made lightly. It followed repeated violations by the Iranian regime, continued deception and an absence of meaningful international consequences.
Danon adds Israel 'acted to protect our citizens'.
We won't sit quietly while our people are targeted, not again, not ever. Empty words will not stop Iran. Israel will.
New Iran commander threatens to open 'gates of hell' for Israel
The newly appointed commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Mohammad Pakpour, has threatened to open 'the gates of hell' in retaliation for Israel's attacks that killed his predecessor Hossein Salami.
'In retribution for the blood of our fallen commanders, scientists and citizens, the gates of hell will soon be opened upon this child-killing regime,' Pakpour said of Israel in a message carried by state news agency IRNA.
What is Iran's nuclear program and how close are they to developing a nuke?
Israel attacked multiple Iranian nuclear and military sites on Friday as tensions reached new heights over Tehran's rapidly advancing nuclear program.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attack was necessary to head off what they claimed was an imminent threat that Iran would build nuclear bombs.
The attack came one day after the International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors censured Iran for the first time in two decades for not working with its inspectors.
So, how close is Iran to developing a atomic weapon? Here, MailOnline takes a look at the country's nuclear program.
Read the full story here:
Europe's leaders call on Iran and Israel to de-escalate
Sir Keir Starmer and the leaders of France and Germany have called on Israel and Iran to refrain from further escalation after overnight Israeli strikes.
A Downing Street spokesperson said:
The Prime Minister spoke to the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, this morning following the developments in the Middle East overnight.
The leaders discussed the long-held grave concerns about Iran's nuclear programme, and called on all sides to refrain from further escalation that could further destabilise the region.
The leaders reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defence, and agreed that a diplomatic resolution, rather than military action, was the way forward. They looked forward to speaking again soon.
Wall Street opens lower after Iran strikes
Wall Street's main indexes opened lower today after Israel's deadly strike on Iranian nuclear facilities inflamed tensions in the oil-rich Middle East and battered risk sentiment across global markets.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 388.1 points, or 0.90%, at the open to 42,579.48. The S&P 500 fell 44.7 points, or 0.74%, at the open to 6,000.56, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 211.6 points, or 1.08%, to 19,450.925 at the opening bell.
78 people killed in Israeli strikes - Iranian media
Iranian media outlet Nour News is reporting 78 people were killed and 329 injured following Israeli airstrikes overnight in Tehran.
Nour News said the figures are unofficial and they have yet to be independently verified.
Iraq accuses Israel of 'violating' its airspace
Iraq has filed a complaint with the United Nations Security Council over Israel's 'violation of Iraqi airspace' in a major attack on Iran, Baghdad's foreign ministry said.
'These practices constitute a flagrant violation of Iraq's sovereignty,' the ministry said.
Iraq is calling on the Security Council to 'assume its responsibilities' and act to 'prevent the recurrence of such violations'.
Starmer 'kept in the dark' about Israel's attack on Iran amid anger over Gaza
by Jason Groves, Daily Mail Political Editor
Keir Starmer was 'kept in the dark' about Israel's audacious attack on Iran, amid growing tensions between London and Tel Aviv.
In a major diplomatic snub, insiders said Benjamin Netanyahu gave the Prime Minister no notice of his plan to mount bombing raids against Iran's nuclear facilities and military chiefs last night.
Reacting this morning, Sir Keir described reports of the bombing raids as 'concerning' and urged all parties in the region to 'step back and reduce tensions urgently'.
He added: 'Escalation serves no one in the region.
'Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy.'
Read more here:
Netanyahu to speak with Trump and Putin today
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to speak with Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin today, his office has said.
Iran warns revenge 'in near future' as it denies drone claims
Iran has denied Israeli reports that Tehran launched drones towards Israel today, adding revenge will come in the 'near future'.
Iran's Fars news agency, citing security source, dismissed claims by the Israeli miliary that 100 drones were fired off towards Israel in response to the attack on military and nuclear sites.
Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin later said 'most' of the drones had been intercepted.
Iran has promised a harsh response to the overnight onslaught, which killed the heads of both its armed forces and the powerful Revolutionary Guards, and Israel said about 100 drones had been launched towards Israeli territory in retaliation.
Ireland urges citizens not to travel to Israel
Ireland has advised its citizens against travelling to Israel after airstrikes on Iran overnight.
The Irish premier Micheal Martin and deputy premier Simon Harris said they were 'deeply concerned' after Israel launched strikes on Tehran early on Friday, targeting the country's nuclear programme and rekindling fears of a full-scale conflict.
Mr Harris, who is also the minister for foreign affairs, said they had updated travel advice to warn citizens against travelling to Israel.
We have already travel advice in place for Irish citizens not to travel to Iran, and today we're extending that travel advice to advise against any travel to Israel
For all Irish citizens, we're keeping in very close contact with our diplomats on the ground in both Iran and Israel, and they're obviously keeping in close contact with the relatively small number of Irish citizens in those countries as well.
Israel strikes mark a 'major turning point' and Iran will be under pressure to retaliate, expert warns
Iran has been left humiliated and will be under pressure to retaliate after Israel's strikes, an expert has warned.
RUSI senior research fellow Burcu Ozcelik told Times Radio this afternoon: 'Iran has been cornered.
'Its red lines have been crossed. It has been humiliated from a regional point of view and will face domestic pressure to retaliate.'
She added that Israel’s strikes against the country mark a 'major turning point.'
Trump suggests Iran has 'second chance' to make nuclear deal
Donald Trump has said Iran perhaps has a 'second chance' to sign a nuclear deal after urging them to strike an agreement earlier today.
In a new post on his Truth Social platform, the president said:
Two months ago I gave Iran a 60 day ultimatum to “make a deal.” They should have done it! Today is day 61. I told them what to do, but they just couldn’t get there. Now they have, perhaps, a second chance!
Earlier today, Trump said he gave Iran 'chance after chance to make a deal' on nuclear weapons but 'they just couldn't get it done'.
The latest round of talks between the US and Iran on a nuclear deal are due to take place in Oman on Sunday.
UK updates Israel travel advice in wake of strikes
Britain has updated its travel advice for anyone planning to visit Israel in wake of strikes against nuclear and military facilities in Iran.
'The situation could escalate quickly and could pose significant risks, including missile fire,' an update on the government's website said.
Britain also re-issued its travel advice for other countries including Iran, Iraq, Saudia Arabia, Egypt and Syria to include a warning on the risk of wider escalation.
Britain and Greece urge ships to avoid Red Sea amid fears of further violence
The UK and Greece have advised their merchant shipping fleets to avoid sailing through the Gulf of Aden and to log all voyages through the Straits of Hormuz after Israel's attacks on Iran on Friday, Reuters is reporting.
Greek ship owners were urged to send details of their vessels sailing through the Strait of Hormuz to Greece’s maritime ministry, according to a document issued by Greece's shipping association, seen by the news agency.
Accoriding to Reuters, the document said:
Due to developments in the Middle East and the escalation of military actions in the wider region, the (Greek) Ministry of Shipping ... urgently calls on shipping companies to send ... the details of Greek-owned ships that are sailing in the maritime area of the Strait of Hormuz.
While all UK-flagged vessels, which include the Gibraltar and Bermuda registries, were advised to avoid sailing through the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, a separate document issued by the UK's transport ministry said.
Revealed: Iranian military chiefs and nuclear scientists killed by airstrikes
Here's a graphic of the senior military figures and nuclear scientists killed in the Israeli airstrikes.
Operation Rising Lion targeted sites in Tehran as well as Iran's nuclear facilities in a devastating wave of air strikes - escalating fears the Middle East is on the brink of all-out war.
Israel says it has intercepted 'most' drones from Iran
Israel has claimed it has intercepted 'most' of the drones launched from Iran in response to air strikes on military and nuclear sites.
According to the Israeli military, around 100 drones had been fired in a retaliatory measure.
Military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said
Earlier, we alerted about a large-scale drone launch targeting our territory. Most of the targets were intercepted.
'The Israeli Air Force continues to operate to intercept unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Iran toward the State of Israel,' the military said in a statement shortly before Defrin's briefing.
UK confirms no involvement in Iran strikes
Downing Street has said the UK did not take part in Israeli strikes targeting Iran's nuclear programme.
'The UK did not participate in Israel's strikes overnight,' a spokesman for the Prime Minister said.
He would not say if there had been a request for help from Israel to counter the drones or whether the UK would help in the event of a request, saying he would not comment on operational or intelligence matters.
Downing Street refused to say whether Sir Keir Starmer had spoken to Benjamin Netanyahu after the strikes or whether Israel had informed the UK of its plans ahead of time.
Russia denounces Israel over 'unprovoked' strikes
Russia has now released a statement describing the Israeli airstrikes as 'unprovoked' as it blamed the West for whipping up what it called anti-Iranian 'hysteria'.
President Vladimir Putin is said to be receiving real-time reports on the situation from Russia's SVR foreign intelligence service and the foreign and defence ministries, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
We strongly condemn the use of force by the state of Israel in violation of the Charter of the United Nations and international law. Unprovoked military strikes against a sovereign U.N. member state, its citizens, peaceful cities, and nuclear energy infrastructure are categorically unacceptable.
Initial reports suggested the Bushehr nuclear power plant, which Russia built, had not been hit.
Moscow has repeatedly offered to help the United States and Iran reach a deal on Tehran's nuclear programme.
Iran confirms death of aerospace commander
Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed that its aerospace commander had been killed with fellow officers in an Israeli air strike on their command centre.
'Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps aerospace force Major General Amirali Hajizadeh... along with a group of brave and dedicated fighters of this force, were martyred' in an Israeli attack on their command centre, the Guards said in a statement.
Iran minister tells United Station Israel strikes were 'declaration of war'
The Iranian foreign minister has told the United Nations that Israeli airstrikes in Iran were a 'declaration of war'.
Seyyed Abbas Araqchi has called on the UN Security Council to immediately address the attack which he described as a 'gross violation of Iran's sovereignty'.
Abbas Araqchi shared the letter he wrote to the UN on his Telegram channel.
Airlines stocks tumble in response to Israeli strikes
Global airline stocks tumbled in premarket trading today as airstrikes prompted carriers to clear out the airspace over Israel, Iran, Iraq and Jordan.
Airlines across the world are scrambling to divert and cancel flights to keep passengers and crew safe amid fears the conflict could further escalate.
Flights to Tel Aviv, Tehran and other Middle East destinations were cancelled as airspaces shut following Israeli strikes on Iran.
Shares of European airlines, Lufthansa fell almost 5% on the Tradegate platform, while Air France-KLM and EasyJet were down as much as 4%.
US-based airlines Delta, American and United slid between 4% and 5% in premarket trading.
Concerns of a prolonged disruption gripped the travel industry too.
Shares of cruise operators such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Corp, were down between 3% and 4%, while online travel agencies Booking Holdings and Expedia were down about 1.5%.
Hezbollah releases statement attacking 'enemy' Israel
Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has today warned Israel threatens to 'ignite the region' as the group condemned the strikes on its backer Iran.
'This enemy adheres to no logic or laws and knows only the language of killing, fire, and destruction,' Hezbollah said in a statement that condemned the strikes as a 'brutal' aggression.
Long seen as the Iran-led axis's most powerful group, Hezbollah was severely weakened after its latest war with Israel, which ended in a ceasefire agreement in November.
Most of its leaders were killed and much of its military capacity destroyed in a conflict that started when Hezbollah launched attacks in support of its ally Palestinian Hamas in Gaza.
Under the ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah was to withdraw from border areas and hand over its weapons to the Lebanese state.
Watch: MailOnline explain reasons behind timing of Israel's attack
Nuclear site destroyed and top military chiefs wiped out as Israel unleashes strikes after planning covert operation for years
Israel's overnight strikes targetted dozens of military and nuclear installations, including Iran's prized Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant (NEP).
They also cut off the head of the Islamic Republic's military command structure.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, Commander of the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC), Hossein Salami, IRGC Aerospace Forces commander Ali Hajizadeh and Commander of Khatem al-Anbiya (Emergency Command), Khatem-Gulam Ali Rashid were all confirmed dead along with several other high-ranking figures.
Read the full story of how Israel executed its unprecedented offensive:
Israeli government closes missions around the world following strikes
The Israeli government has closed its missions around the world and says they will not provide consular services in light of recent events.
It is unclear how long the closures will last for.
Iranian Air Force commander killed in Israeli strike, IDF says
The commander of the IRGC Air Force, Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Iran overnight, according to Israel's Defence Forces.
The top brass was killed during a meeting at an underground command centre with other air force commanders, including of the IRGC's drone unit, the IDF added.
Pictured: Bombed high-rise buildings in Tehran after Israel targeted Iranian commanders
Breaking:Donald Trump said he told Iran to make a deal but leaders 'just couldn't get it done... now they're dead'
Donald Trump has said in a new statement that he gave Iran 'chance after chance to make a deal' on nuclear weapons but 'they just couldn't get it done'.
Seemingly in reference to the military commanders and nuclear scientists Israel assassinated in its attack last night, he then said: 'They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse!'
Writing on his platform Truth Social, he demanded that Iran must now make a deal 'before there is nothing left', and warned the 'next already planned attacks' will be 'even more brutal.'
Israeli warplanes hit an underground area at Iran's main uranium enrichment site in Natanz overnight, the IDF has said.
Natanz is the largest site of its kind in the country and has been working for years to obtain nuclear weapons, according to the IDF spokesman.
'The underground area of the site was damaged. This area contains a multi-storey enrichment hall with centrifuges, electrical rooms and additional supporting infrastructure,' the military said in a statement.
'In addition, critical infrastructure enabling the site's continuous operation and the Iranian regime's ongoing efforts to obtain nuclear weapons were targeted,' it added.
Breaking:Israel launches more strikes on Iran
Both Iranian and Israeli media have reported renewed air strikes by Israel on Iran.
A military airport in Tabriz, in the northwest of the country, is said to have been hit.
The city of Shiraz, in southern Iran, was also targeted, according to reports. Videos on social media showed huge columns of smoke rising above the city.
Pictured: The aftermath of a targeted Israeli drone strike in Tehran
Breaking:Iran has called Israel's attack a 'declaration of war'
Iran has said Israel's strikes on its nuclear sites and targeting of military leaders in last night's attack was a 'declaration of war', AFP reports.
It also called on the UN Security Council to 'immediately address this issue.'
Majority of Revolutionary Guards senior leadership 'neutralised' in Israel strike
The majority of the senior leadership of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Air Force was 'neutralised' as they held a meeting at their underground headquarters, Israeli media is reporting.
Iran names new military commander after Israel takes out Revolutionary Guards chief
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has appointed a new commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), following the killing of Hossein Salami in Israeli airstrikes.
Khamenei promoted Mohammad Pakpour to the rank of major general and commanded him to 'enhance the IRGC’s capabilities, readiness, and internal cohesion.'
Pictures: Protesters take to streets in Tehran as Israel warned it faces 'painful' fate
These pictures show street protests taking place in Tehran following a series of Israeli airstrikes across Iran
Iranians hold posters of nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi (left), Fereidun Abbasi (centre) and, IRGC general Gholam Ali Rashid (right) who were killed in the offensive.
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned Israel it faced a "bitter and painful" fate over the attacks.
The Israeli military said later that Iran launched 100 drones towards Israel in response and that its air defences were intercepting them outside Israeli territory.
How the world reacted to Israel strikes on Iran
World leaders have urgently called for restraint in the Middle East amid fears Israel's airstrikes on Iran could trigger an escalation of all-out conflict across the region.
Let's take a look at how countries have reacted today:
President Donald Trump told Fox News he was given a heads up about the impending attack on Iran before it occurred, but insists the United States did not help. Trump reportedly added that the United States will defend itself, and Israel, if Iran retaliates. He will hold a meeting with the National Security Council later this morning
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the Government urged “all parties to step back and reduce tensions urgently” after Israeli strikes on Iran, adding that “now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy”. Starmer has said stability in the Middle East 'must be the priority'. Reports have suggested Britain will not protect Israel in the event of an Iranian retaliation
China has said it is ready to play a 'constructive role' in easing tensions between Israel and Iran. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said Beijing was against what it described as 'violations of Iran's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.'
France has today urged restraint on all sides. French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on X: 'We call on all sides to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could undermine regional stability'. Last month France, Canada and Britain criticised Israel over its military operation in Gaza.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was informed about the attack by Benjamin Netanyahu. Merz said in a statement that Israel has a right to defend itself and Iran should not develop nuclear weapons, as he called on both sides to refrain from escalation.
Israel says all Iranian drones have been intercepted
Israel has intercepted all Iranian drones headed to the country, the military has said.
The Israeli Defence Forces said they have 'control over the situation' after Iran launched at least 100 drones earlier today.
Israel's Home Front Command - which issues shelter warnings - said people no longer need to stay close to shelters but that gatherings are still restricted and people should remain alert.
Turkey urges Israel to halt 'aggressive actions'
Turkey has urged Israel to stop 'aggressive actions' following a wave of strikes on Iran.
Ankara strongly condemned Israeli airtrikes as a 'clear violation of international law'.
In May, Istanbul played host to nuclear negotiations between Iran and European powers.
In a statement, the Turkish foreign ministry said:
The fact that the strikes come at a time of intensified negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme shows that the (Benjamin) Netanyahu government is unwilling to resolve any issue through diplomatic means and is not averse to putting regional stability and global peace at risk for its own interests.
We call on the international community to take urgent action to prevent the spread of war.
Video: Crowds gather as 'red flag of revenge' raised over Iran's Jamkaran mosque
A red flag symbolising 'vengeance' has been raised over Jamkaran Mosque in the Iranian city of Qom.
Protesters who gathered outside the mosque waved Iranian flags and chanted anti-Israel slogans as they demanded a 'severe punishment' against Israel following its deadly strikes.
The red flag has been flown in the past during calls for revenge against Israel, for example following following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last year.
China offers to broker peace talks
China has said it is ready to help broker talks to bring peace and stability to the Middle East following Israel's strike on Iran.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the county was 'deeply concerned' about the strikes as it offered to ease tensions.
He told a press briefing:
The Chinese side is deeply worried about the severe consequences that such actions might bring.
He later added:
Relevant parties to take actions that promote regional peace and stability and to avoid further escalation of tensions.
Video: Explosions in Natanz as Israel strikes Iranian nuclear site
Israel army says destroyed 'dozens' of radars, missile launchers in Iran strikes
The Israeli army says it has destroyed 'dozens' of radars and missile launchers in its strikes on Iran.
The air force strikes amounted to an 'extensive blow' against Iran's air defenses in the west of the country, the IDF said.
Why are Israel and Iran enemies?
Israel's massive strike on Iran on Friday morning came after decades of hostilities between the bitter enemies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long identified Iran as its greatest threat, citing the country's nuclear program, its hostile rhetoric and support for anti-Israel proxy groups across the region. Iran meanwhile has pointed to Israel's repeated assassination and sabotage attacks targeting it, as well as its devastating war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, for its enmity.
While the two countries have long appeared to be on a collision course, a series of recent developments, including Israeli blows against Iran and its allies and the re-election of President Donald Trump, helped lay the groundwork for Friday's attack.
Following Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, the country's leadership immediately identified the US and Israel as its main enemies. This was connected in large part to American and Israeli ties to Iran's last shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who fled Iran while fatally ill ahead of the revolution and despised by Iran's new leaders.
Over the past two decades, Israel has repeatedly accused Iran of developing nuclear weapons. Iran insists it has maintained its nuclear program for peaceful purposes only.
Israel sees a nuclear-armed Iran as an existential threat, and breaking Iran's regional network of militant proxy groups has been a major goal.
Britain 'will not protect Israel when Iran retaliates'
Britain will not protect Israel when Iran retaliates as it did during Tehran's missile attacks in October 2024, the Defence Editor of The Times, Larisa Brown, reports.
Video: Destruction following Israeli airstrikes on Tehran
Mossad 'launched sabotage attacks to damage Iranian air defences before strikes'
Mossad launched behind-the-scenes sabotage attacks targeting Iranian strategic missile systems and air defence capabilities, officials have been quoted as saying.
Axios reporter Barak David quoted a senior Israeli official as saying: 'Alongside extensive airstrikes by the Israeli Air Force, the Mossad led a series of covert sabotageoperations deep inside Iran.
'These operations were aimed at damaging Iran’s strategic missile sites and its air defense capabilities.'
Graphic: The Iranian nuclear and military sites in Israel's crosshairs as jets target Natanz facility
Israel preparing for attack on Iran 'to last two weeks'
Israeli officials have warned the attack on Iran could last for two weeks, local media has quoted officials as saying.
Earlier, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned citizens to be prepared, to buy food and to remain near shelters after a state of emergency was declared in the country.
Airline announces flight cancellations and planes evacuated from Israeli airport
Emirates airline said flights to and from Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Iran had been cancelled, after Israel launched strikes on Iran on Friday, sparking concerns of a wider escalation.
Earlier we reported how Jordan has closed its airspace following Israel’s strikes on Iran in the early hours.
Iran, Israel and Iraq have also shut their airspace.
Meanwhile Israeli airline Israir said it was evacuating and relocating its aircraft from Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, adding this was part of a contingency plan developed over the past few days.
'No nuclear contamination so far' after Israel attack on Iran enrichment site
Israel's attack on a key nuclear facility in Iran on Friday did not result in any nuclear contamination, state media reported.
'The attack on Natanz has not resulted in any nuclear contamination so far,' the official IRNA news agency quoted the deputy police chief of Isfahan province as saying, adding that there have been no reported deaths from the attack as of yet.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), who said it has been monitoring the situation closely, confirmed that no increase in radiation levels has been observed at the site.
The IAEA also said it had been informed by Iranian authorities that the Bushehr nuclear plant was not targeted in the attack.
Key updates as Israel strikes Iran
If you are just joining us, here is what we know so far.
More than 200 Israeli fighter jets have carried out strikes across Iran, targeting the 'heart' of the country's nuclear programme and sites in the capital Tehran.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Chief Hossein Salami and leading nuclear scientists were killed in the attack, Iranian media has confirmed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Operation Rising Lion was carried out 'to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival', claiming that 'if not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time.'
More than 100 drones have been launched by Iran at Israel in recent hours, according to the Israeli military.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the US was not involved in the strikes.
At least six nuclear scientists killed in Israel attacks on Iran
'Abdolhamid Minouchehr, Ahmadreza Zolfaghari, Amirhossein Feqhi, Motalleblizadeh, Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, and Fereydoun Abbasi were the nuclear scientists martyred' in Israel's attack, Iran's Tasnim news agency said.
Pictured: Smoke rises from explosions in Natanz after Israeli strikes on Iran nuclear facilities
Israeli jets 'still attacking' Iran nuclear sites
The Israeli military said at around 6am BST that jets were still conducting strikes against Iranian military and nuclear sites.
'Our pilots attacked and are still attacking military targets and targets related to the nuclear programme in various areas in Iran,' spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin told journalists.
Jordan closes its airspace after Israeli strikes on Iran
Jordan has closed its airspace following Israel’s strikes on Iran early Friday.
Iran, Israel and Iraq have also closed their airspace.
Jordan’s civil aviation authority says the airspace will be closed for all flights over the country.
Jordan News Agency said the temporary measure is out of concern for any dangers related to the escalation in the region.
Iran cancels scheduled nuclear negotiations with US after airstrikes
Iranian officials just confirmed on state television that scheduled talks in Oman to negotiate nuclear capabilities will no longer go ahead.
Any discussions are now halted until further notice, they said.
Israel deployed 200 warplanes to strike over 100 targets in assault, officials say
Israeli leaders have confirmed that at least 200 warplanes were involved in striking more than 100 targets in Iran during Friday's early morning attacks.
Iran's oil facilities were not damaged in attack, officials say
Iran's national oil company confirmed fuel distribution is continuing unaffected despite attacks on other high value targets.
Vacations, a wedding and a 'Washington decoy': Inside Israel's plot to lull Iran into false sense of security
In the days leading up to the strike, Israel reportedly deliberately concealed efforts to discuss and plan the attack with a series of strategic moves designed to lull Iranian officials into a false sense of security.
Netanyahu ordered a Thursday night cabinet meeting which was publicly identified as a chance to 'discuss hostage negotiations', when in reality they were meeting to green light the pre-dawn strikes on Iran.
A senior Israeli source told The Jerusalem Post on Friday ministers were briefed in advance that the cabinet meeting was regarding hostages in Gaza, and that 'the aim was to put Iran to sleep.'
Inside the meeting, the Iran strikes were addressed and every minister was reportedly required to sign a non-disclosure agreement known as a 'guardian of the secret' document.
Simultaneously, Netanyahu's aides briefed media about an upcoming vacation he was planning to take, and mentioned that his son was getting married next Tuesday.
He was due to holiday in Galilee, his team said.
A statement was also issued claiming that two of Netanyahu's allies were heading to Washington on Friday to hold a 'sixth round' of meetings with US envoy Steve Witkoff about Iran's nuclear capability. No such meeting was ever planned, and neither man left Israel.
Finally, Netanyahu's team refused to comment on false leaks and reports that he had fallen out with Trump, stoking the rumors and allowing them to reach Iran.
In doing so, his team reportedly hoped it would lower Iran's concerns about an imminent threat.
Iran strikes back: More than 100 drones launched at Israel
The Israeli military claims Iran has launched over 100 drones at Israel in the last few hours.
IDF Spokesman Effie Defrin said the drones will take at least several more hours to reach Israel, and that officials are working to shoot as many down as they can.
WATCH: How Israel launched strikes on Iran's nuclear program
House Speaker Mike Johnson defends Israel's airstrikes
New pictures emerge of buildings razed in Iran
America prepared to defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates, Trump warns
Trump told Fox News that he was given a heads up about the impending attack on Iran before it occurred, but insists the United States did not help.
'Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back,' Trump said.
Trump reportedly added that the United States will defend itself, and Israel, if Iran retaliates, which it has vowed to do.
Israel expects Iranian response to begin 'within hours' as Israelis are warned to hunker down
Israel's top officials anticipate Iran will begin retaliatory strikes within hours, according to local media.
Defense assessments suggest the risk is exponentially greater, and Netanyahu has warned his citizens to prepare for spending long spans of time in reinforced bomb shelters as the attacks begin.
Oman slams Israeli escalation days before Iran-US negotiations
Oman yesterday announced negotiations to be held in the capital between Iranian and American officials on Sunday.
Now, amid escalations in tensions between the nations, the government has hit out at Israel.
'Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its repercussions, and calls on the international community to take a clear and firm position to stop this dangerous approach,' the government said in a statement.
The statement continued to warn Israel's airstrikes 'threaten to exclude diplomatic solutions and undermine the security and stability of the region.
Iran was in breach of its non-proliferation obligations
For the first time in 20 years, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) this week declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations.
Iran failed to provide the watchdog with credible explanations as to how uranium was detected at undeclared sites, despite the agency having investigated the matter for years.
Nineteen of the 35 countries on the board of the IAEA voted for the motion to declare the breach.
The motion was submitted by the ‘Quad’ of nations – the US, UK, France and Germany – who said ‘states will be held to account if they do not live up to their obligations’
Iran says the decision was ‘political’ and said they would respond by setting up a new uranium enrichment facility.
The United States told embassy staff in Iraq to evacuate yesterday amid fears Israel was poised to strike Iran even without American support.
President Donald Trump told media on Wednesday that 'they are being moved out because it could be a dangerous place and we'll see what happens.'
Asked why family members of military personnel were allowed to voluntarily leave the region, he ominously replied: 'You'll have to see.'
Iranian Foreign Ministry insists United States is partially to blame for attack
In a chilling warning to Americans, the Iranian Foreign Ministry has laid blame for Israel's attack squarely at the feet of the United States.
This comes despite repeated denials from US officials of involvement in the coordinated attacks.
'The dangerous and far-reaching effects and consequences of the Zionist regime’s aggression against our beloved homeland of Iran will be the responsibility of this regime and its supporters,' the ministry said in a statement to Al Jazeera.
'The Zionist regime’s aggressive actions against Iran cannot have been carried out without the coordination and authorization of the United States.
'Accordingly, the United States government, as the main supporter of this regime, will also be responsible for the dangerous effects and consequences of the Zionist regime’s adventure.'
Iran vowed to 'target US bases' if they were attacked
Throughout the week as the threat of an attack on Iran reached fever pitch, Iranian defence minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that if talks fail and 'a conflict is imposed on us', Iran 'will target all US bases in the host countries.'
Concerns over radiation levels as International Atomic Energy Agency confirms strike on Iran’s uranium enrichment facility
The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that an Israeli strike hit Iran’s uranium enrichment facility at Natanz.
IAEA’s head Rafael Mariano Grossi wrote on X: 'The IAEA is closely monitoring the deeply concerning situation in Iran.
'The Agency is in contact with Iranian authorities regarding radiation levels. We are also in contact with our inspectors in the country.'
Top Iran military chiefs killed in airstrikes, including second highest commander
Major General Mohammad Bagheri has been confirmed killed in the airstrikes.
Bagheri is the chief of staff of the Armed Forces in Iran, making him the second highest commander after the Supreme Leader.
His death is considered a significant blow to Iran's chain of command.
Local media also identified Major General Gholam Ali Rashid, the Commander of Iran's Central Headquarters, along with his son, as 'martyrs' to Friday morning's attack.
Earlier it was confirmed that the head of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Hossein Salami, was among the dead.
Additionally, two highly important nuclear scientists, Fereydoun Abbasi, the former head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, a physicist and president of the Islamic Azad University in Tehran, have been killed.
Pictured: Mohammad Bagheri
Pictured: Hossein Salami
Where are Iran's nuclear facilities?
WATCH: Flights rapidly diverted immediately after the strikes
Netanyahu praises Trump in his address to the nation
Netanyahu addressed President Trump in his address to the nation shortly after the attack, saying: 'He has made clear time and again that Iran cannot have a nuclear enrichment program.
'Today, it is clear that Iran was just buying for time.'
Strikes came days before Iran and US were set to hold talks as Iranians take to the streets to chant: 'Death to America'
Israel’s strikes come days before a sixth round of talks were scheduled between Iran and the US over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program.
Officials from both the US and Iran were due to meet this Sunday in Oman to discuss a potential agreement.
The Trump administration has been seeking a deal that would halt Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
It wasn’t immediately clear how the strikes would affect plans for the talks.
While Secretary of State Rubio tried to get ahead of any potential conflict and maintain Israel acted unilaterally in striking Iran, Iranian state television aired footage of people chanting 'Death to Israel' and 'Death to America.'
PICTURED: Extraordinary damage in Tehran following Israel's strikes
WATCH: Netanyahu addresses the public over airstrikes
President Trump to convene National Security Council meeting on Friday
President Trump will convene a National Security Council meeting to discuss the Israel-Iran conflict on Friday morning.
The White House confirmed the meeting will take place at 11am local time.
United States confirms it had 'no involvement' in attacks
Secretary of State Marco Rubio categorically ruled out any involvement from the United States in the attacks on Iran.
He said: 'We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.'
Rubio said Israel had advised officials that they believed the strikes were a necessary measure of self defense.
'Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,' Rubio warned.
Trump had earlier warned that Israel could be gearing up to attack Iran, despite ongoing negotiations over the nation's nuclear capacity.
Iraq closes airspace amid attacks on Iran
Iraq’s ministry of transportation has announced a 'temporary closure of Iraqi airspace' and complete suspension of air traffic.
Meanwhile, Israel’s airports authority said Ben-Gurion international airport, the country’s main airport, has been closed until further notice.'
Iran says two top nuclear scientists were killed in targeted attacks on their homes
Iranian state media has named nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi as casualties in the latest round of attacks.
Reporting said the duo were 'attacked their homes in targeted assassinations.'
Israeli Prime Minister celebrates success of targeted attacks
In his celebratory address to the nation after the airstrikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Iranian leaders as 'tyrants of Tehran' who have 'brazenly, openly called for Israel's destruction.
'They've backed up their genocidal rhetoric with a program to develop nuclear weapons,' he said.
'In recent years, Iran has produced enough highly enriched uranium for nine atom bombs, nine. In recent months, Iran is taking steps that it has never taken before, steps to weaponize this enriched uranium, and if not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time.
'It could be a year, it could be within a few months, less than a year. This is a clear and present danger to Israel's very survival.'
Netanyahu said the air strikes 'struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program.'
'We targeted Iran's leading nuclear scientists working on the Iranian bomb,' he said.
'We also struck at the heart of the Iran ballistic missile program. Last year, Iran fired 300 ballistic missiles at Israel…Soon, those missiles could carry a nuclear payload, threatening the lives not of hundreds, but of millions.'
US Embassy in Israel directs all staff to shelter in place
The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a directive to all employees and their families to shelter in place across Israel amid fears of a retaliatory attack.
The directive was shared by the US State Department amid the rising tensions in the Middle East.
WATCH: Explosions hit Tehran during Israeli airstrike
Smoke rises from Iranian nuclear facility
Black smoke rose Friday over Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility at Natanz though it wasn’t clear how bad the damage was.
Iranian state television briefly showed the live picture with a reporter.
Natanz is partially above ground, partially below ground, with multiple halls of centrifuges spinning uranium gas for its nuclear program.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said Israel targeted the site in Friday’s attack. Natanz previously has been targeted by the Stuxnet cyberattack and multiple sabotage campaigns likely carried out by Israel.
Iran vows to respond to attacks
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Friday that Israel will face “severe punishment” over its attack on the country.
Khamenei issued a statement confirming top military officials and scientists had been killed in the attack.
Israel 'opened its wicked and blood-stained hand to commit a crime against our beloved country,' Khamenei said.
In doing so, he said Israel had revealed 'its malicious nature more than ever by striking residential centers.'
'In the enemy’s attacks, a number of commanders and scientists were martyred. Their successors and colleagues will immediately continue their duties, God willing.
'With this crime, the Zionist regime has brought a bitter and painful fate upon itself, and it will certainly face it.'
Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency had earlier quoted an anonymous official saying Iran will offer a ‘decisive’ response to Israel’s attack.
'The response to the Israeli attack will be harsh and decisive,' an official said.
The official added that details of Iran's retaliation 'are being discussed at the highest levels' when asked whether the attack would be imminent.
Head of Revolutionary Guard is among the dead
Iranian state television says the head of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Hossein Salami, is presumed dead after an Israeli attack.
It added that one other top Guard official, as well as two nuclear scientists, were also dead.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, created after its 1979 Islamic Revolution, is one of the main power centers within the country’s theocracy.
It also controls Iran’s arsenal of ballistic missiles, which it has used to attack Israel twice during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.
Salami had warned Israel and the West against any attacks less than 24 hours before his death in a statement vowing: 'We say today that we stand fully ready for any scenarios, situations, and circumstances.
'The enemy sometimes threatens us with military action. We are ready, and this is the reality we have been living with for years because being prepared for a war on any scale is our job and duty.'
Salami warned Iran's enemies 'not to make any miscalculations' and shot down comparisons between Iran and Palestine.
'The enemy thinks it can fight Iran the same way it fights defenseless Palestinians who are under an Israeli siege.
'We are war-tested and experienced.'
Salami also noted his officials are always 'monitoring the enemy.'
Israel has launched 'preemptive strikes' against Iran and declared a state of emergency as the country braces for retaliation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an address that the attacks will continue 'for as many days at it takes to remove this threat' of Iran's nuclear program.
Netanyahu said that Israel targeted Iran's main enrichment facility in Natanz and the country's ballistic missile program, as well as top nuclear scientists and officials.
How Israel's Operation Rising Lion unfolded
Israeli media has quoted security officials as saying that three coordinated operations formed the basis of its attack on Iran overnight.
1. Commando teams sent into Iran
Special Mossad units entered Iran to deploy precision-guided weapons, in open areas near the location of Iranian surface-to-air missile systems. As the Israeli Air Force launched its air strikes, these were activated and precision strikes were launched simultaneously.
2. Strike systems planted in civilian vehicles
Mossad covertly planted attack technologies in civilian vehicles across Iran. When the operation commenced, these launched powerful munitions at their assigned targets.
3. Covert drone base established inside Iran
Mossad established a secret base of explosive-laden drones in the heart of Iran, smuggling them in long before the strike. During the overnight attack, these were activated and launched at Iranian surface-to-surface missile launchers.
