US, Israel carry out strikes on Iran amid global watch

As the world held its collective breath, the United States and Israel launched devastating strikes on Iran. US President Donald Trump vowed that these operations would cripple Iran’s military and urged Iranians to rise against their regime. “We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry,” Trump declared in a speech from his Florida home, posted exclusively to his Truth Social platform. He called for the Iranian people to stand up and take charge of their future.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Trump’s call, stating that these actions aimed to “remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime.” He also urged Iranians to overthrow clerical leadership, describing a time when “the brave Iranian people can finally take control.”

Russia responded with calls for its citizens to leave Iran. Former President Dmitry Medvedev dismissed the recent talks as merely “a cover,” claiming that tensions had only been masked and now was the moment for the true enemy’s demise.

Qatar, home to a US military base, declared its security intact despite initial reports of attacks. An official later confirmed Qatari defense systems had intercepted an Iranian missile while the defence ministry reported repelling several attacks.

Speaking from exile in Washington, Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah and a prominent critic of Tehran, expressed optimism about victory: “We are very close to final victory,” he said. He urged Trump to intervene immediately to help the Iranian people reclaim their nation.

Jordan’s military remained vigilant during the ongoing strikes, with air force sorties aimed at safeguarding its airspace from any potential threats. An unnamed military source reported that sirens had been heard in Amman as part of these reconnaissance operations.

France echoed other nations’ calls for restraint and de-escalation after striking Iran. Minister-delegate Alice Rufo noted the priority must be to protect citizens, forces, and monitor developments in real-time, all under her Armed Forces and Veterans’ Affairs ministry’s banner.

The African Union urged restraint and dialogue, fearing further conflict could exacerbate instability on the continent. They warned of serious repercussions for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience, particularly affecting regions like Africa where unrest and poverty are severe.

Poland’s embassy in Tehran remained safe, though the country was prepared to handle any contingencies that may arise during these volatile times. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also expressed a call for restraint via X, while Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen appealed to all parties to refrain from further escalation. He underscored the importance of stability within the region.

As nations weighed their options and tensions simmered, it became clear that global responses would hinge on diplomatic avenues and mutual understandings in order to prevent any further strife in a region already reeling under instability.