Israel and US launch airstrikes on Iran, escalating Middle East conflict

Israel, with US involvement, has carried out airstrikes on hundreds of sites in Iran. The attacks have reportedly killed high-ranking Iranian officials, including relatives of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei. Visuals of the strikes have been released by Israel.

In response, Iran has closed its airspace and airlines have halted flights. Israel has also shut down its offshore natural gas fields as a precaution. The coordinated military action, reportedly planned for months, has raised global alarm about a wider regional confrontation.

The immediate consequences include significant infrastructure damage in Iran and a major escalation of hostilities. The situation remains volatile, with both sides assessing their next moves amid heightened tensions.