The Israeli military has released official video footage showing strikes against targets in western Iran, stating it attacked "hundreds of targets" on Saturday. The operation, part of what Israel calls "Operation Roaring Lion," marks a significant escalation in regional hostilities.
The released clips appear to show an attack on missile launchers at a remote site. A missile and its transporter erector launcher are visible, though the video cuts off before the full battle damage can be assessed. The specific munitions used and the precise outcome of the strikes remain unclear.
Scale of the Operation and US Involvement
Details of Saturday's strikes, conducted jointly by the US and Israel, are still emerging. The scale is described as significant, with Washington having amassed hundreds of fighter jets, warships, and support aircraft in the Middle East over recent weeks. US President Donald Trump stated the attacks marked the start of "major combat operations."
Reported targets within Iran include the residences of top officials, such as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as military facilities.
Iranian Retaliation and Regional Fallout
In response, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps stated on Saturday afternoon that it was launching "dozens of drones." Iran has also carried out dozens of ballistic missile strikes against neighbouring countries, including Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan, claiming to target US bases in those nations.
Israel itself has come under attack from Iran, though initial reports suggest these strikes have been smaller in scale compared to a major exchange between the two countries in June of the previous year. American forces have been engaged in air defence operations throughout the region.
Context of Escalating Conflict
The strikes follow a period of heightened tension and represent a direct, large-scale military engagement between Israel and Iran on Iranian soil. The conflict has rapidly drawn in other regional actors and triggered a significant US military buildup, raising concerns of a broader regional war.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing offensive operations and the international community monitoring for further escalation.