A widespread conflict involving a US-Israeli coalition and Iran has entered its fifth day, following joint strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei The attacks began on Saturday, February 28, with US and Israeli forces launching strikes targeting Iran's missile infrastructure as well as other military and strategic sites
In retaliation, Iran has launched attacks on Israel and US-allied states in the Gulf These responses have reportedly extended beyond military installations to include civilian sites and energy facilities The fighting has escalated rapidly, drawing other nations into the widening conflict, with both Cyprus and Lebanon now involved Casualties and damage are reported to be mounting on all sides, though specific figures have not been confirmed in the provided reports
Inside Iran, residents have described the impact of intense and continuous bombing, with one individual telling the BBC that strikes "hit so hard the house was shaking" The Iranian authorities have also reportedly blocked internet access, severely limiting communication with the outside world As the conflict continues, concerns are growing over its potential to destabilize the broader Middle East region
Asad Baig