DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — On early Friday, intense Israeli airstrikes targeted Iran's capital, Tehran, as well as various locations in Lebanon, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Concurrently, the U.S. military reportedly struck an Iranian drone carrier at sea, emphasizing its commitment to countering Iranian military power.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the bombardments against Iran are expected to increase dramatically. Israel's military announced it had initiated a broad-scale wave of strikes across Tehran, affecting both the capital and missile bases in Kermanshah. Witnesses reported the airstrikes as particularly severe, with explosions detected in various neighborhoods.
According to Israeli military statements, the strikes have significantly impaired Iran's air defenses and missile capabilities. The conflict has expanded across the Middle East, with Iran launching retaliatory missile and drone attacks against Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain—nations hosting U.S. forces. No immediate casualties were reported from these attacks.
In Lebanon, Israel intensified its air campaign, executing a series of airstrikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Motorists scrambled to leave the area amidst rising fears for civilian safety. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported a rise in fatalities to at least 123 since the renewed hostilities with Hezbollah began, with ongoing danger for residents in affected areas.
The U.S. military confirmed an early Friday strike on an Iranian drone carrier named the IRIS Shahid Bagheri, igniting it in flames. This vessel is noted for its considerable size, comparable to a World War II aircraft carrier. Admiral Brad Cooper from U.S. Central Command provided footage of the carrier ablaze, marking a significant development in the naval dimensions of the ongoing conflict.
In response to Iran’s actions, multiple nations in the region reported intercepting drone and missile threats aimed at installations housing U.S. forces. Qatar's Defense Ministry stated it had successfully intercepted a drone assault on Al Udeid Air Base, while Saudi Arabia downed three ballistic missiles aimed at Prince Sultan Air Base. Additionally, air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain, though there were no reported casualties from the Iranian attacks.
U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated calls for the Iranian populace to reclaim their nation during a press briefing, asserting that the U.S. would guarantee their safety, although details of this assurance were vague. Trump notably expressed interest in influencing the selection of Iran's next supreme leader, following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which occurred in the early stages of the conflict.
On the Iranian side, officials maintain that there is no intention to engage in talks with the U.S. amid the escalating war, citing a lack of trust following failed negotiations surrounding a potential nuclear deal. Furthermore, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. Navy for what he described as an atrocity at sea, following the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena, which allegedly resulted in the loss of 87 crew members.
Back in Lebanon, Israel’s airstrike operations included at least 11 targeted bombings in Beirut’s southern suburbs, leading to substantial destruction and causing fires near civilian infrastructure. The Israeli army issued warnings for residents to evacuate as safety concerns mounted. The Lebanese health ministry’s toll indicated a troubling rise in casualties due to the ongoing violence.
The hostilities have created a profound humanitarian crisis, with thousands fleeing the violence. As military actions continue, both sides appear entrenched in their positions, suggesting that the conflict might escalate further in the coming days. International observers express concern about the potential for broader regional impacts amidst the fluctuating dynamics of the Middle East.
