The United States and Israel launched an attack on Iran on Saturday, with explosions reported in Tehran and multiple cities across the country. Tehran retaliated by firing missiles and drones at Israel and toward several military bases in the Middle East where US forces operate.

Iran had previously warned it would target US military facilities in the region if attacked. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated all US assets in the area are considered legitimate targets. Casualty and damage details are still emerging.

Iran's semi-official Fars news agency reported a series of explosions in the capital around 9:27 AM (06:27 GMT). An Al Jazeera correspondent in western Tehran heard two blasts, and social media videos showed smoke rising from various parts of the city. Missiles struck areas of Tehran, including districts housing key government ministries and military compounds.

In the southern city of Minab, an Israeli strike hit an elementary girls' school, killing at least 51 people. Strikes were also reported in Isfahan, Kermanshah, Qom, Tabriz, and other locations. Iran's National Security Council advised residents to leave Tehran amid fears of further escalation.

Iran responded by attacking US bases across the Middle East, with most interceptions reported. Israel declared a "special state of emergency," with multiple explosions in the skies over northern and central areas, including Tel Aviv and Haifa. The Israeli army said it intercepted a new wave of Iranian missiles.

Bahrain reported a missile attack targeting the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters, while Kuwait said Ali al-Salem Air Base came under ballistic missile fire, all intercepted. Saudi Arabia issued a statement standing in solidarity with Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE.

Source: www.aljazeera.com