Live: Israel Launches 'Pre-Emptive' Strikes on Iran, Multiple Explosions Reported in Tehran

US Warns Commercial Ships to Avoid Gulf Waters Amid 'Significant Military Activity'

The US Department of Transportation has issued an urgent advisory urging commercial vessels to stay clear of the Gulf region following the recent wave of attacks on Iran. The department's Maritime Administration warned that the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea are currently subject to "significant military activity," recommending that ships avoid the area whenever possible.

In a separate safety directive, US-flagged, owned, or crewed vessels were instructed to maintain a distance of at least 30 nautical miles (approximately 56 kilometres) from any US military ship to avoid being mistakenly identified as a threat amid heightened alert levels.

Meanwhile, the Qatari Ministry of Transport announced earlier that maritime navigation has been temporarily suspended in Qatari waters, further disrupting one of the world's most critical shipping lanes as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Oil Giants Halt Hormuz Shipments as Regional Attacks Disrupt Global Arterial Route

Major oil and trading companies have begun suspending fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating attacks across the region, according to industry reports. A top executive at a leading trading company told Reuters that vessels will 'stay put for several days' as firms assess the security risks in the strategic waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran, serves as a critical artery for global energy supplies, with approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil and other fuel products transiting through it daily. Any prolonged suspension of shipments through this chokepoint threatens to trigger major disruptions in world energy markets, raising concerns about supply shortages and price volatility.

Russia Demands Immediate Halt to US-Israeli Strikes on Iran, Calls for Diplomacy

Russia has issued an urgent call for an immediate cessation of US and Israeli attacks on Iran, urging all parties to return to a path of political and diplomatic resolution. In an official statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the ongoing military action, describing it as 'irresponsible' behaviour that risks further destabilising an already volatile region.

Moscow appealed to the international community to provide a swift and objective assessment of the strikes, which it they could have far-reaching consequences for regional security. Reaffirming its position as a mediator, the ministry stated that Russia remains ready to assist in efforts to find peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect, and a balance of interests among all parties involved.

Major Airlines Halt Middle East Flights as Regional Airspace Closes

A growing number of international airlines have suspended flights to and from multiple destinations across the Middle East as tensions escalate and airspace closures take effect. Here is a summary of the disruptions:

• Air France: Cancelled all flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut for Saturday.
• Iberia Express: Cancelled its Saturday afternoon flight to Tel Aviv.
• Indigo: Currently monitoring regional updates for further decisions.
• Japan Airlines: Cancelled its Saturday Tokyo Haneda–Doha service and the return flight scheduled for March 1.
• LOT Polish Airlines: Turned its Warsaw–Dubai flight back to Warsaw.
• Lufthansa Group: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman until March 7, as well as Dubai flights through the weekend. The airline is avoiding Israeli, Lebanese, Jordanian, Iraqi, and Iranian airspace until March 7.
• Norwegian Air: Suspended all Saturday flights to and from Dubai. Tel Aviv and Beirut routes remain unaffected as they operate only during the summer.
• Turkish Airlines: Cancelled Saturday flights to Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, and Oman, along with services to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan until March 2.
• Virgin Atlantic: Rerouting flights to avoid Iraqi airspace and cancelled its Saturday London Heathrow–Dubai service.
• Qatar Airways: Temporarily suspended all flights due to the closure of Qatari airspace.

Airlines continue to advise affected passengers of their travel options as they monitor the rapidly evolving situation.

Kuwait Condemns Iranian Attack as 'Flagrant Violation,' Vows Proportional Response

Kuwait's Foreign Ministry has issued a strong condemnation of the attacks carried out on its soil by Iran, describing them as a 'flagrant violation' of the nation's airspace and a breach of international law. In an official statement, the ministry asserted Kuwait's sovereign right to respond in a manner 'commensurate with the scale and nature of this attack.'

The ministry further warned that continued military activity of this kind poses a serious threat to regional stability, urging restraint while reserving the right to defend its territory against further aggression.

Iran's Security Council Advises Residents to Evacuate Tehran Amid Escalation

Iran's National Security Council has issued an advisory urging residents to leave the capital city of Tehran in light of the ongoing situation. In an official statement, the country's security body recommended that those who are able should 'travel to other places and cities' while maintaining calm. The unprecedented advisory comes as tensions continue to mount following waves of military exchanges between Iran, Israel, and other regional actors.

British Airways Suspends Tel Aviv and Bahrain Flights Until March

British Airways has announced the suspension of its flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until March 3, citing the ongoing volatile situation in the region. In an official statement, the airline confirmed it has also cancelled its service to Amman for the day, as it closely monitors developments.

Prioritising passenger safety above all else, the company stated it is contacting affected customers to advise them of their travel options amid the escalating conflict across the Middle East.

EU Leaders Urge 'Maximum Restraint' as Iran Crisis Deepens

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa have issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the rapidly unfolding developments in Iran. The two top EU officials called on all parties involved to exercise 'maximum restraint,' emphasising the critical need to protect civilians and fully uphold international law amid the escalating conflict.

In their statement, the leaders also reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to the safety of its citizens in the region, pledging to take all necessary steps in close coordination with EU member states to ensure that European nationals can count on their full support during the crisis.

IDF Confirms Second Wave of Iranian Missiles, Air Force Engages Threats

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have confirmed that a new wave of missiles has been launched from Iran toward Israel, triggering air raid sirens in several areas across the country. In an official statement on Telegram, the military announced that the Israeli Air Force is actively operating to intercept the incoming projectiles and neutralise any additional threats.

Reiterating warnings issued earlier in the day, the IDF emphasised that while defence systems are engaged, they are not completely foolproof ("hermetic"). Authorities have again urged the public to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to all safety directives issued by the Home Front Command as the attack continues to unfold.

Air India Halts All Middle East Flights Amid Regional Escalation

Air India has announced the suspension of all its flights to destinations across the Middle East, citing the ongoing volatile situation in the region. The decision comes as tensions continue to rise following a series of military exchanges and attacks involving multiple Gulf states, prompting the airline to prioritise passenger and crew safety by halting operations indefinitely.

EU Warns of 'Perilous' Middle East Escalation, Urges Civilian Protection

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has characterised the rapidly unfolding events in the Middle East as 'perilous,' issuing an urgent call for the protection of civilians and adherence to international law. In a statement detailing the bloc's response to the escalating crisis, Kallas confirmed she had held discussions with Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and other regional counterparts.

Kallas noted that she is actively coordinating with Arab partners to pursue a diplomatic path forward amid the heightened hostilities. Meanwhile, the EU is taking concrete steps to ensure the safety of its citizens, with the bloc's consular network organising departures for EU nationals as non-essential personnel are withdrawn from the region.

UAE Confirms Fatality in Iranian Missile Strike, Vows Right to Respond

The UAE Ministry of Defence has officially confirmed that Iranian ballistic missiles targeted the country, with air defences successfully intercepting a 'number' of them. However, the ministry reported that falling shrapnel from the attack struck a residential area in Abu Dhabi, resulting in material damage and the death of one individual of Asian nationality.

In a strongly worded statement, the ministry condemned the attack in the 'strongest terms,' rejecting any targeting of civilian objects and national institutions. It characterised the strike as a 'dangerous escalation' and a 'cowardly act' that threatens civilian safety and undermines regional stability.

Emphasising that the targeting constitutes a 'flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law,' the ministry declared that the UAE 'reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its territory.' The statement concluded by affirming that the nation is 'fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats.'

Bahrain Condemns 'Treacherous Attacks' on Its Territory as Violation of Sovereignty

Bahrain has officially confirmed that its territory was targeted in a series of attacks, which it described as a 'blatant violation of the kingdom's sovereignty and security.' According to reports from Qatar's news agency, Manama characterised the strikes as 'treacherous attacks' that directly endanger both the nation's security and the safety of its citizens and residents. The strong condemnation underscores the severity of the escalation as military action spreads across multiple Gulf states.

UAE Reports Fatality After Intercepting Iranian Missiles, Condemns 'Flagrant Violation'

At least one person has been killed in Abu Dhabi following an Iranian missile attack on the United Arab Emirates, according to the country's state news agency. The report stated that Emirati defence forces successfully intercepted several missiles launched from Iran, though debris from the strikes resulted in fatalities.

In an official response, the UAE condemned the attack as a 'flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law.' The government issued a strong warning, declaring that 'it reserves its full right to respond to this escalation,' signalling a potential shift in its stance as the regional conflict widens to include Gulf nations beyond immediate confrontation zones.

Iran's Security Council Condemns 'Brutal' US-Israeli Air Operation

Iran's Supreme National Security Council has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a 'brutal air operation' carried out by the United States and Israel against the country. In an official statement, the council characterised the strikes as an act of aggression that targeted the Iranian nation.

The statement further suggested that the timing of the attack, occurring during ongoing negotiations, reflects a miscalculation by the enemy. The council asserted that adversaries mistakenly believe the 'resilient Iranian nation' can be forced to submit to their demands through such 'cowardly actions,' vowing that the aggression will not achieve its intended effect.

Iran Confirms Strikes on Key US Air Bases Across Gulf Region

Iran has officially confirmed the targeting of multiple military installations across the Gulf region, according to reports from the Fars news agency. The strikes were directed at key air bases hosting US forces, including Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and Al-Dhafra Air Base in the UAE. Additionally, the fifth US base in Bahrain was also listed among the targeted sites. The coordinated attacks mark a significant escalation, underscoring Tehran's stated objective to retaliate against US and Israeli military assets throughout the region.

Fresh Blast Rocks Bahraini Capital Following Attack on US Base

A new loud explosion has been reported in Manama, the capital of Bahrain, according to AFP news agency. The blast comes shortly after a US military base in the city was targeted in a missile attack, part of Iran's ongoing retaliation against US and Israeli strikes. The situation in the strategically vital Gulf nation, which hosts the US Navy's 5th Fleet, remains volatile as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Iran Vows 'Decisive' Response to US-Israeli Aggression, Citing Right to Self-Defen

Iran's Foreign Affairs Ministry has strongly condemned what it describes as a joint US-Israeli military attack on its territory, vowing to make the 'aggressors regret their actions.' The ministry stated that the strikes targeted Iran's 'territorial integrity and national sovereignty,' damaging both defensive infrastructure and non-military sites in several cities.

In an official statement, Tehran described the operation as a 'clear example of armed aggression' and a violation of international law and the UN Charter. The ministry specifically cited Article 51, asserting Iran's 'legitimate right to respond decisively' to what it regards as a breach of international peace and security.

While claiming that the Iranian nation has historically shown restraint to prevent escalation, the statement emphasised that its armed forces are now 'fully prepared to defend the country.' Concluding with a historical reference, the ministry declared that Iran has 'never surrendered to aggression' and pledged a decisive response that will make its adversaries regret their hostile actions.

Wave of Explosions Reported Across Multiple Gulf Sites

A series of explosions have been reported across several locations in the Middle East, marking a significant escalation in the region. Confirmed reports indicate blasts occurring in three distinct areas: Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Manama in Bahrain, and locations within Kuwait.

Explosions Rock Bahraini Capital Near US Naval Base

Reports of explosions have emerged from the Bahraini capital, Manama, which hosts the US Navy's 5th Fleet. Correspondents from AFP news agency on the ground confirmed hearing the blasts, following a series of urgent alerts issued by the Bahraini interior ministry.

The ministry announced that emergency sirens had been activated across the city and issued a strong advisory urging all citizens and residents to remain calm and immediately seek shelter in the nearest secure location. The explosions in this strategically significant location mark a major escalation in the region.

IRGC Confirms Large-Scale Missile and Drone Strike on Israel

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has officially confirmed that it has launched a wide-ranging salvo of missiles and drones targeting Israel. The attack, described by the IRGC as a 'first wave,' was announced as a direct response to what it termed 'US-Israeli attacks' against the Islamic Republic.

In a formal statement, the IRGC described the military action as retaliation against a 'hostile and criminal enemy.' The statement portrays the strikes as a defensive measure following unspecified aggressions, signalling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

Netanyahu: Joint US-Israel Operation Targets Iran's Nuclear Threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel and the United States have launched a joint operation aimed at neutralising the existential threat posed by Iran. In a televised address, he expressed gratitude to former President Donald Trump for his leadership, framing the action as a response to decades of hostility from the Iranian regime, which he accused of violence against Israelis, Americans, and its own people.

Netanyahu asserted that the 'murderous terrorist regime' must never be allowed to possess nuclear weapons, warning that such an outcome would endanger all of humanity. He positioned the operation as a catalyst for change, urging the diverse ethnic groups within Iran—including Persians, Kurds, and Azeris—to reject their leadership and work towards a 'free and peaceful Iran.'

Addressing Israeli citizens directly, he asked for resilience and strict adherence to Home Front Command instructions in the coming days. Dubbing the mission Operation 'The Roar of the Lion,' Netanyahu concluded with a call for national unity, stating, 'Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel.'

IDF Confirms Large-Scale Iranian Missile Attack, Urges Public Compliance with Safety Protocols

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have confirmed that Iran has launched missiles towards Israel, triggering air raid sirens across multiple regions. In an official statement, the IDF announced that its Air Force is actively engaged in intercepting the incoming threats and neutralising any additional dangers to ensure public safety.

Acknowledging the scale of the attack, the military emphasised that while defence systems are operational, they are not completely foolproof ('hermetic'). As a result, authorities have issued an urgent appeal for residents to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to all safety directives issued by the Home Front Command.

Trump: No Final Decision on Iran Strikes, But Warns of 'Obliteration'

President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the US has not made a 'final decision' on whether to launch military strikes against Iran, though he expressed deep frustration with Tehran's stance in ongoing nuclear negotiations.

Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn, Trump said he was 'not happy' with Iran's negotiating position, insisting that Tehran 'cannot have nuclear weapons' and is 'not willing to give us what we need.' He emphasised that the US had repeatedly tried to reach an agreement, stating, 'We tried.'

Despite the absence of a final decision on strikes, Trump issued a stern warning, declaring that if action is taken, 'we are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally ... obliterated.'

The comments follow indirect talks between the two nations in Geneva earlier this week, where both sides reportedly acknowledged progress towards a potential deal. However, Washington continues to apply pressure, with Trump reiterating that the US remains 'ready, willing, and able' to act 'with speed and violence, if necessary.'

When asked about the possibility of a prolonged conflict in the Middle East, Trump acknowledged the risk, noting that 'when there's war, there's a risk of anything - both good and bad'.

Explosions Rock Tehran as Israel Confirms 'Pre-emptive Attack' on Iran

Israel launched what it called a 'pre-emptive attack' on Iran early Saturday, with several explosions reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran, sharply increasing regional tensions.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strikes, announcing a 'special and permanent state of emergency' across Israel in anticipation of retaliation. The move follows weeks of heightened tensions and stalled nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

Iranian state media reported explosions in the east and north of Tehran. The state-affiliated Fars news agency reported that multiple missiles hit the Republic area of the city. Images obtained by the BBC showed smoke rising over Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square in central Tehran.

A US official told Al Jazeera that American forces participated in the strikes, though the extent of their involvement remains unclear. This development marks a significant escalation following the largest US military buildup in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq invasion ordered by President Donald Trump.

Sirens sounded across Israel shortly after the attacks began, warning residents of possible incoming projectiles. The Israeli government stated the operation aimed to 'remove threats against the State of Israel.';

The strikes undermine recent diplomatic efforts between US and Iranian officials, who had been engaged in indirect nuclear talks mediated by Oman. Those negotiations had shown 'significant progress,' according to mediators, with technical discussions scheduled for next week in Vienna.

Iran has long vowed to respond forcefully to any attack, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. The strikes come eight months after the 12-Day War last June, when Israel and the US targeted Iranian nuclear facilities following Israeli strikes.

Iranian state television briefly experienced audio disruptions during initial coverage but later aired footage emphasising national unity against 'enemies'. Tehran has not yet officially confirmed casualties or damage assessments.