U.S. and Israel launch major attack on Iran

BREAKING: Israel & U.S. Launch Strikes on Iran; Retaliation Reported

Israel and the United States have launched coordinated military strikes against targets in Iran, according to multiple live reports. Explosions were reported in Tehran and other locations, with officials saying the operation is targeting military and strategic sites.

Iran has responded with missile attacks toward Israel and U.S. positions in the Middle East, raising concerns about further escalation across the region.

Key points so far

• U.S. officials described the operation as a major military action aimed at addressing threats from Iran.

• Israel stated the strikes were intended to reduce what it calls an existential security threat.

• Sirens and missile alerts were reported in Israel following Iranian retaliation.

• Reports indicate additional explosions near U.S. bases in the Gulf region.

Global response

World leaders and the United Nations have called for de-escalation as tensions rise. Several airlines and regional governments are adjusting travel and security operations in response to the unfolding situation.

LIVE UPDATE — 12:14 PM ET

U.N. Security Council meeting scheduled

The United Nations Security Council called a meeting for later today following the joint attack on Iran by the U.S. and Israel. The meeting will take place at 4:00 p.m. ET.

In a Telegram statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on Iran as “a preplanned and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent U.N. member state,” The Associated Press reported.

China, another Security Council member, said it was highly concerned and called for an end to military action.

Updates are developing. Check back for additional confirmed information.