Meta Description: Breaking: US and Israel launch devastating strikes on Iran today, targeting leaders and nuclear sites in Operation Epic Fury. Trump urges regime change as Tehran retaliates fiercely—could this spark World War 3? Get the latest Iran news and updates.
Today, in a stunning escalation that has the world on edge, the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran, plunging the Middle East into what could become a full-scale war. President Donald Trump, in a fiery video message from the White House, announced the start of “major combat operations” under Operation Epic Fury, vowing to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program and topple its regime. Explosions rocked Tehran and other cities just hours ago, with reports of targeted strikes on key military and leadership sites. As tensions boil over from failed nuclear talks, millions fear this could ignite a broader conflict involving superpowers like Russia and allies in the region.
The assault comes amid mounting frustration over Iran’s ballistic missile program and support for proxies, which Trump has repeatedly blasted on Truth Social. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, long a thorn in US-Iran relations, was reportedly moved to a secure location as bombs fell. For families in Tehran and beyond, this is not just geopolitics—it’s a nightmare of uncertainty, evoking memories of past wars while stirring hopes among dissidents for change.
What Triggered Operation Epic Fury?
The strikes didn’t emerge from nowhere. Weeks of stalled US-Iran nuclear negotiations set the stage, with Iran refusing to curb its ballistic missiles or halt support for groups like Hezbollah. Trump, fresh off threats to “bomb Iran back to the Stone Age,” saw no breakthrough, leading to this dramatic move.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch ally, joined forces, citing Iran’s recent drone incursions and threats to Tel Aviv. The joint operation targeted Iran’s IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) bases, nuclear facilities, and even the offices of Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. US officials confirmed the use of Tomahawk missiles and stealth bombers, emphasizing precision to minimize civilian harm—but tragedy struck nonetheless.
Emotionally, this hits hard for Iranians who’ve endured economic sanctions and internal crackdowns. Protesters chanting for freedom now whisper of a possible turning point, while others dread the retaliation that could engulf their homes in flames.
Inside the Devastating Strikes: Targets and Tactics
Eyewitnesses in Tehran described a night of terror as explosions lit up the sky around 1 a.m. local time—perfectly timed to catch leaders off guard. US forces focused on obliterating Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites and missile stockpiles, deploying massive GBU-57 bunker-busters capable of penetrating deep underground.
Israel, meanwhile, honed in on high-value individuals: the Supreme Leader’s compound, presidential palace, and top military commanders. Reports suggest at least two senior IRGC officials were killed, though confirmation is pending. The operation involved over 50 US fighter jets recently deployed to the region, refueling Israeli aircraft mid-air for seamless coordination.
The human element is heartbreaking—amid the strategic wins, Iranian state media reported a school in southern Minab hit, killing 51 girls and injuring dozens more. Parents’ anguished cries echo online, a stark reminder that war’s precision often fails the innocent. Yet, Trump hailed it as a “massive success,” posting on Truth Social: “The hour of freedom is at hand for the Iranian people.”
Iran’s Retaliation: Missiles Rain Across the Region
Tehran didn’t wait long to hit back. Within hours, the IRGC unleashed waves of ballistic missiles toward Israel and US bases in Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait. Explosions were reported in Haifa and Tel Aviv, with Israeli defenses intercepting many but not all.
US assets took hits too—damage in Dubai led to flight suspensions, stranding thousands. Iran’s allies, including Russia, condemned the attacks, raising fears of escalation. Khamenei, if alive, is set to address the nation soon, amid rumors of his demise that sent shockwaves through global markets.
The retaliation evokes raw emotion: Iranian families huddle in shelters, while Israelis recall past missile barrages. One X user from Tehran shared, “We’re cheering the end of tyranny, but bombs don’t discriminate.” This tit-for-tat could spiral, with experts warning of a proxy war drawing in more nations.
Global Reactions: From Support to Fears of World War 3
World leaders reacted swiftly. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy backed the strikes, noting Iran’s drone supplies to Russia and calling for fewer “terrorist regimes.” In contrast, Russia vowed support for Iran, potentially supplying advanced weapons.
The UN urged restraint, while oil prices surged 15% amid Gulf disruptions. US Senator John Fetterman praised the move, but critics like those in the EU fear it derails peace efforts. Al Jazeera and BBC coverage highlighted civilian tolls, amplifying calls for ceasefires.
Emotionally compelling, this moment unites some in hope—Iranians abroad chant “Javid Shah” for a free Iran—while terrifying others with visions of World War 3. Trump’s bold stance resonates with his base, but global anxiety mounts: Are we at war with Iran? The answer feels perilously close to yes.
The Path Forward: Risks and Hopes Amid Chaos
As dust settles, questions loom: Will Iran strike US soil? Could allies like China intervene? Trump insists the operation will continue for days, aiming for regime collapse without ground troops. Yet, history warns of quagmires, from Iraq to Afghanistan.
For ordinary people, the stakes are personal—lost lives, shattered economies, displaced families. Dissidents see opportunity: “Freedom for Iran,” one post read, echoing global solidarity. But without diplomacy, this could engulf the Middle East, affecting everything from gas prices to refugee crises.
- Casualties Reported: At least 53 killed in Iran, including 51 schoolgirls; unconfirmed IRGC losses.
- Targets Hit: Nuclear sites, missile facilities, leadership offices in Tehran.
- Retaliatory Strikes: Iran targeted US bases in 5+ countries; explosions in Israel and Gulf states.
- Economic Impact: Oil up 15%; flights grounded across Middle East.
- Global Stance: US vows continuation; Russia condemns; UN calls for peace.
In this volatile hour, the world holds its breath. Stay tuned for updates on this breaking Iran war news—lives hang in the balance.
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Author Bio:
Aditi Rao is a veteran journalist based in West Bengal, India, specializing in international affairs and Middle East conflicts. With over 15 years in reporting for outlets like Reuters and BBC News, she brings factual, empathetic insights to global stories. Follow her for timely world news today.
