Iran latest: Supreme leader ‘safe and sound’, spokesman tells Sky – as fears grow over long war after US-Israeli strikes
US and Israel Target Iranian Leadership in New Conflict Escalation
The United States initiated “Operation Epic Fury” as Israeli forces targeted key Iranian figures. In response, Iran launched missile strikes against Israeli and American military installations in the region. The conflict has begun to ripple across nearby nations, intensifying regional tensions. Stay tuned for ongoing developments.
White House Details Trump’s Post-Strike Actions
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt provided insights into Donald Trump’s response to the attacks on Iran. She highlighted that the U.S. president engaged with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte following the strikes.
Iranian Retaliation and Regional Fallout
Missile attacks were reported in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE today, attributed to Iran’s retaliation against the U.S. and Israel. According to our Middle East correspondent Adam Parsons, two critical themes emerged from Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent statement: the pursuit of regime change, not merely nuclear weapons, and the determination to sustain the military campaign.
“This is about eradicating the regime, not just addressing nuclear capabilities,” Netanyahu stated. “The campaign will persist ‘as long as necessary,’ and the conflict will ultimately lead to ‘true peace.’ Everyone understands that ‘this murderous regime’ must be removed, as its nuclear arsenal poses a global threat.”
Netanyahu emphasized the need for collective action, urging public support: “This moment will arrive, and you will be called to rise in the streets, for you must complete this work and dismantle the regime.”
Qatar Implements Safety Measures Amid Missile Threats
Following reported Iranian missile strikes, Qatar’s tourism authority announced the suspension of public events and gatherings to ensure safety. Entertainment at hotels and tourist sites has also been halted until further notice. Smoke was observed in Doha earlier, linked to debris from the attacks.
US Forces Successfully Defend Against Iranian Strikes
US Central Command reported that its forces repelled hundreds of Iranian missile and drone attacks after the initial strikes. No U.S. casualties or injuries were reported, and damage to installations was minimal, leaving operations unaffected. The campaign included precision munitions and low-cost drones deployed from air, land, and sea.
Macron Excludes France from US-Israeli Strike Coordination
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the situation in Paris, stating that France was not informed in advance of the US-Israeli strikes and was not involved in their planning. “Our top priority is the safety of our nationals and assets,” he said, calling for diplomatic efforts to regain control.
Earlier, Republican senator Lindsey Graham criticized Western Europe’s stance, calling it “pathetically soft” for its initial reactions to the attacks. Netanyahu is set to deliver a live statement shortly, with updates available via the top stream on this page.
Iran Clarifies Supreme Leader’s Status
Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei remains unharmed, with a spokesperson declaring, “They are all safe and sound.” While some commanders were reportedly killed in the attack, the leadership is unscathed.
