US-Iran War Live News Updates: The US-Israel war on Iran has witnessed a third day of intense escalation, with the Pentagon confirming the killing of three US service members in Kuwait, and President Trump vowing to continue the operation until the objectives are achieved. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and 40 top officials were killed in the attacks, after which Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli and US bases in the Gulf. US forces have struck more than 1,000 targets inside Iran, while Israel has issued orders to evacuate dozens of villages in southern Lebanon amid rising tensions with Hezbollah.
American war deaths: CENTCOM has confirmed that three US service members were killed and five seriously injured during “Operation Epic Fury.”
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Target on Tehran: Israeli forces are targeting the “heart” of the Iranian capital; Several explosions were reported near government districts. The Israel Defence Forces have also launched attacks on Beirut, the Lebanese capital and Hezbollah stronghold.
Provisional leadership: A 3-member Leadership Council (President Pezeshkian, Chief Justice Mohseni-Ezei, and Guardian Council member Ayatollah Arafi) now rules Iran in accordance with Article 111 of the Constitution.
Ultimatum to Gulf countries: Tehran has officially warned Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain that they are “legitimate military targets” if they assist Western forces.
Citizen Toll: Iranian news agency IRNA reported the death toll of 165 people after an attack on a primary school for girls in southern Iran (Minab).
Iran’s transitional power structure
Following the assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei, President Massoud Pezeshkian announced a provisional leadership council. This body will perform the duties of the Supreme Leader until the Assembly of Experts elects a permanent successor.
Regional growth and economic impact
The “barrier” of retaliatory attacks from Iran has significantly disrupted the global landscape:
- Aviation: Airspace is closed over much of the Middle East; the major hubs of Dubai and Doha report significant delays and security alerts.
- market: Gold prices have soared above $5,200 an ounce as investors flocked to safe-haven assets.
- Energy: Global oil markets are monitoring the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil passes, following threats to maritime security.
This blog synthesises reports from CENTCOM, IRNA, and other news outlets. Although we strive for 100% accuracy, the situation on the ground in Tehran and the Gulf is extremely volatile.
