The death toll has reportedly surpassed 800 across both countries. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper said more than 50,000 American troops, some 200 fighter jets, two aircraft carriers, and strategic bombers are involved in the operation.
Regional Retaliation Expands
Tehran launched a fourth consecutive night of retaliatory attacks on Israel and US targets across the region.
Strikes were reported on Washington’s consulate in Dubai, a port in Fujairah in the UAE, and the US embassy in Riyadh.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called on foreign governments to sever ties with Iran.
Strategic Waterway Becomes Flashpoint
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claims it has established full control over the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for roughly a third of global seaborne oil trade.
Asian markets plunged as the escalating war rattled investors and fueled fears of major energy disruptions.
US President Donald Trump said Washington would ensure maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf “at a very reasonable price,” while French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would reinforce its military posture in the region to protect allies and secure shipping lanes.
Civilian Casualties Mount
The initial strikes on Saturday killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and several senior officials, along with hundreds of civilians.
These include 168 schoolchildren that were killed in a strike on an elementary school, which Tehran blamed on Israel.
The US confirmed six service members killed.
At least 12 fatalities have been reported in Israel.

