U.S. Strikes on Iran Are Underway

Two U.S. officials told CNN that the United States is actively carrying out military strikes on Iran. One official described the operation as “not a small strike,” indicating a substantial and ongoing action rather than a minor, isolated event. (CGTN News)

This confirmation came as explosions were reported in Iranian cities, and air defenses were activated across the country. The coordinated strike appears to include precision missile and air attacks on multiple Iranian military sites. (Gulf News)

These operations mark a significant escalation in conflict between Washington and Tehran — one that was long anticipated amid months of mounting tension. The strikes are being conducted as part of a broader joint offensive involving the United States and Israel, with both nations describing the action as necessary to counter perceived threats from Iran’s regime. (ABC7 New York)

President Trump Confirms Major Combat Operations

President Donald Trump confirmed via social media video that the U.S. military has begun what he called “major combat operations” against Iran. Trump framed the strikes as a response to Iran’s refusal to halt what the U.S. considers threatening nuclear and ballistic missile development programs, as well as long‑standing regional aggression. (Our America)

In his video statement, the president said the operation could last several days and that there was a risk of American casualties, acknowledging the seriousness of the military engagement. He reinforced that the stated goal is to protect U.S. national security interests and eliminate “imminent threats” posed by Iranian forces. (Our America)

Coordination With Israel: Operation Epic Fury (a.k.a. Lion’s Roar)

The strikes appear to be part of a coordinated military campaign between the United States and Israel. Israel’s Defense Forces confirmed that its military struck dozens of targets across Iran as part of a broad offensive — a campaign Israeli officials have named Operation Lion’s Roar. (ABC7 New York)

Explosions have been widely reported in Tehran and other Iranian cities, including in central districts and near government infrastructure. In Israel, a state of emergency was declared ahead of the strikes. Iran responded by activating air defenses at multiple locations. (Gulf News)

While Israeli officials described their actions as pre‑emptive and defensive, U.S. involvement is confirmed by senior officials who spoke to CNN and other outlets — indicating that both militaries are participating in this large‑scale cross‑border operation. (CGTN News)

What Targets Are Being Hit?

Specific target lists are still emerging, but the early reports indicate that the joint strikes are aimed primarily at:

• Iranian military infrastructure — such as missile launch sites, military bases, and command facilities.

• Government and regime‑linked sites — including locations reportedly tied to Iran’s leadership structure.

• Air defense and strategic systems — presumably to degrade Iran’s ability to retaliate immediately. (Gulf News)

Iran’s response has included reports of missile launches toward neighboring states and missile defense activations, although it remains unclear how many strikes have hit their intended targets or caused significant damage. Many Iranian missiles were reported intercepted by U.S. allied air defense systems. (Business Insider)

Retaliation and Regional Reaction

Iran did not remain silent. Iranian state media and officials confirmed retaliatory missile launches targeting U.S. military bases in the Middle East — including locations in the Gulf region, such as Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, Iraq, and Jordan. U.S. missile defense systems reportedly intercepted numerous incoming threats, and civilian casualties were reported in some areas. (The Guardian)

In the United Arab Emirates, local authorities reported at least one civilian death from an Iranian missile strike — highlighting the risk of escalation beyond strictly military targets. (ABC7 New York)

Domestic Responses and Security Alerts

In the United States, domestic security agencies have responded to the international crisis by heightening vigilance within the U.S. as well. The New York Police Department placed sensitive locations — including diplomatic missions — on alert in case of retaliation or threats linked to the conflict abroad. While no specific credible threat has been confirmed within U.S. cities, counterterrorism units have increased patrols and advised the public to report suspicious activity. (New York Post)

Political Debate and Congressional Scrutiny

Domestically, there is already significant debate over the legality and strategic wisdom of the strikes.

Some lawmakers have criticized the administration for acting without explicit congressional authorization, framing the operation as a “war of choice.” Others have supported the strikes, arguing they are necessary to halt Iranian capabilities and protect U.S. and allied forces. (Reuters)

This split reflects broader concerns over what comes next: whether this will be a short military engagement, a prolonged conflict, or part of a larger push for regime change — a goal Trump alluded to in his address, urging Iranian citizens to rise up and challenge their government once the operation concludes. (Our America)

Global Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

International reactions have been mixed:

• Russia condemned the strikes, labeling them an “unprovoked act of armed aggression” and warning of broader humanitarian and economic consequences. Moscow called for peace and offered to help mediate discussions to de‑escalate the conflict. (AP News)
• European nations like France and Germany urged diplomacy and restraint.
• UN Security Council members have been engaged in emergency discussions to address the crisis. (The Guardian)

Many countries have suspended commercial flights to and from the region, citing security concerns after Iran closed its airspace in response to the strikes. (The Guardian)

Civilian Impact and Concerns

Early reports indicate civilian areas in Iran have been affected by the bombardment, and casualty figures are emerging as local authorities continue to assess the damage. Explosions in urban centers like Tehran have been widely reported by Iranian media and international observers. (Gulf News)

The situation carries a high risk of further civilian suffering if the conflict escalates — a concern repeatedly voiced by humanitarian organizations and international partners calling for de‑escalation.

What’s Next?

At this stage, the key trends shaping the crisis include:

• Continued air and missile operations: U.S. and Israeli forces appear prepared for an extended campaign, with strikes likely to continue for days. (Our America)

• Potential Iranian retaliation: Iran has already launched counter‑strikes at U.S. bases, and additional responses — direct or through allied militias — remain a serious possibility. (The Guardian)

• Regional instability: Neighboring countries hosting U.S. bases are on high alert, and civilian disruptions are increasing. (Gulf News)

• Political repercussions: The debate over congressional authorization, regional strategy, and future diplomatic efforts continues to intensify back in Washington. (Reuters)

Bottom Line

This is one of the most significant escalations between the United States and Iran in decades. Verified reporting confirms that the U.S. is actively participating in military strikes on Iran alongside Israel, marking a major combat operation that could reshape regional dynamics and global geopolitics. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further retaliation, political fallout, and broad international implications as events continue to unfold. (CGTN News)

If you’d like, I can turn this into a timeline of events with timestamps so you can follow exactly how the situation has developed today.