The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran on Saturday, with Iranian state media reporting attacks across the country. Thick smoke billowed from parts of the capital, Tehran.
Trump confirms action
President Donald Trump said in a video posted on social media that the United States has begun “in Iran“.
He accused Tehran of continuing to advance its nuclear program and seeking to develop missiles capable of reaching the United States. Trump also addressed the Iranian public, urging them to “take over your government – this will be your government.”
The Pentagon confirmed the attack had been named “Epic Fury Operation“.
Netanyahu issued a statement
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the coordinated strikes were aimed at “eliminating the existential threat posed by Iran.”
“Our joint action will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands,” Netanyahu said.
Explosions in Bahrain
Hours later, an explosion was reported Bahrain. Videos circulating online showed thick smoke rising from the capital, Manama.
Bahrain authorities said the missile attack targeted the headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in the island nation.
Bahrain’s state news agency called the attack a “blatant violation of the kingdom’s sovereignty and security” and said Bahraini authorities were implementing “urgent measures.”
“The Kingdom of Bahrain strongly condemns this perfidious act of aggression that poses a direct threat to the Kingdom of Bahrain and its citizens,” the statement said.
U.S. advice
The United States has issued a security warning to the region amid rising tensions. U.S. embassies and consulates in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Israel said staff have been instructed to shelter in place and advised U.S. citizens to do the same “until further notice.”
The United Arab Emirates also announced the temporary closure of its airspace U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran continue.
(With input from The Associated Press)
