DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Intense Israeli airstrikes targeted Tehran and Beirut Friday as the U.S. Reportedly struck an Iranian drone carrier in its ongoing campaign against Iranian warships. Iran responded with retaliatory attacks across the Middle East, a week into a period of sustained bombardment that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned is “about to surge dramatically.”
Escalating Conflict and Regional Impact
Israel’s military began “a broad-scale wave of strikes” on Tehran Friday morning, with witnesses reporting intense activity shaking homes in the capital. Explosions were also reported near Kermanshah, an area housing Iranian missile bases. The Israeli military claims to have destroyed most of Iran’s air defenses and missile launchers.
The conflict has expanded beyond Israel and Iran, with Iran launching missile and drone attacks into Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain – all countries hosting U.S. Forces. No casualties have been immediately reported. In Lebanon, renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has led to Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, prompting residents to flee.
U.S. Military Action and Iranian Losses
The U.S. And Israel have conducted nationwide strikes against Iran, targeting its military capabilities, leadership, and nuclear program. These attacks have disrupted oil supplies and global air travel. At least 1,230 people have been killed in Iran, more than 120 in Lebanon, and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials in those countries. Six U.S. Troops have also been killed.
Drone Carrier Struck
The U.S. Military reported striking an Iranian drone carrier, the IRIS Shahid Bagheri, setting it ablaze. The carrier, described by Adm. Brad Cooper as “roughly the size of a World War II aircraft carrier,” is capable of traveling 22,000 nautical miles without refueling. Earlier in the week, an American submarine sank an Iranian frigate off the coast of Sri Lanka, resulting in the deaths of at least 87 sailors.
Under cover of darkness, B-2 stealth bombers dropped bombs on deeply buried ballistic missile launchers inside Iran, and also struck Iran’s “equivalent of Space Command,” according to Adm. Cooper, degrading Iran’s ability to threaten Americans.
Further Escalation and Regional Response
Defense Secretary Hegseth indicated an upcoming surge in military activity, stating it will include “more fighter squadrons, more capabilities, more defensive capabilities,” and “more bomber pulses more frequently.”
Iran’s attacks extended to countries hosting U.S. Forces. Qatar intercepted a drone attack targeting Al Udeid Air Base, while Saudi Arabia intercepted ballistic missiles aimed at Prince Sultan Air Base. Air raid sirens sounded in Bahrain, and Kuwait’s air defenses were activated. Adm. Cooper noted that Iranian attacks have now impacted a dozen countries.
Political Developments
President Donald Trump urged the Iranian people to “aid take back your country,” promising “immunity” while also warning of “absolutely guaranteed death” under the current regime. Both Cooper and Hegseth cautioned against public protests during the ongoing conflict. Trump also expressed a desire to be involved in selecting Iran’s recent supreme leader following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, dismissing Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as a potential successor.
Iranian officials have begun discussions on convening the Assembly of Experts to select a new supreme leader. Buildings associated with the Assembly of Experts have been targeted during the airstrike campaign.
Continued Hostilities in Lebanon
Israel carried out at least 11 airstrikes targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut, prompting evacuations from hospitals. The death toll in Lebanon, stemming from renewed hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, has risen to 123.
Frequently Asked Questions
What countries have been directly targeted by Iran in this conflict?
Iran has launched attacks into Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Israel, according to the source.
What was the purpose of the U.S. Strike on the Iranian drone carrier?
The U.S. Military struck the IRIS Shahid Bagheri to disrupt Iran’s naval capabilities, as the carrier is equipped with a runway for drones and can travel long distances without refueling.
What is the status of the search for a new supreme leader in Iran?
A leadership council in Iran has begun discussing how to convene the Assembly of Experts, which will select the new supreme leader, following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
As the conflict continues to escalate, what role might other nations play in the coming days and weeks?
