US-Israeli War on Iran: Ongoing Live Coverage and Key Updates
Welcome to our continuous live coverage of the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, examining its profound effects on the Middle East and the worldwide economic landscape. Here are the most recent developments shaping this critical situation.
Military Incidents and Rescue Operations
US Central Command has confirmed that rescue efforts are currently underway following the loss of a military refuelling aircraft in what is described as friendly airspace in Iraq. Officials have stated that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire, emphasizing that the incident involved two planes, with the second landing safely. According to an anonymous US official speaking to the Associated Press, the KC-135 aircraft that went down had at least five crew members on board, highlighting the urgency of the ongoing rescue mission.
Escalating Strikes and Political Statements
Israel has launched fresh strikes targeting Tehran and Beirut, intensifying the conflict. In a press conference, former US President Donald Trump declared that his war on Iran is moving along very rapidly and doing very well, labeling Iran as a nation of terror and hate and asserting it is paying a significant price. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a veiled threat against Iran's new supreme leader, suggesting he wouldn't take out life insurance policies on the ayatollah or the leader of Hezbollah. Netanyahu defended the joint military assault with the US, stating Israel's goal is to prevent Iran from moving its nuclear and ballistic projects underground, with some strikes reportedly killing top Iranian nuclear scientists.
Naval Plans and International Responses
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced to Sky News that the US Navy, potentially with an international coalition, will escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz once military conditions allow. He specified that this plan would proceed only after the US achieves complete control of the skies and Iran's missile rebuilding capabilities are fully degraded. Additionally, Trump commented on the Iranian national football team's participation in the upcoming World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, saying they are welcome but questioning the appropriateness for their safety, without providing further details on the risks involved.
Regional Attacks and Countermeasures
In related incidents, six French soldiers were wounded in a drone attack during counter-terrorism training with Iraqi partners, as reported by Reuters. Meanwhile, a US defence official informed BBC News that there were no significant injuries among American soldiers after a base in Erbil, northern Iraq, housing UK and US forces, came under attack from an Iranian drone, with no British soldiers harmed. The IDF's Home Front Command reported that a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit an open area in central Israel, causing no injuries. Saudi Arabia's defence forces intercepted a drone heading towards the Shaybah oil field, along with a ballistic missile and three drones launched towards the eastern region. Qatar's defence ministry also intercepted two ballistic missiles, one cruise missile, and multiple drones launched from Iran.
Global Economic and Security Implications
This conflict continues to ripple across the global economy, with oil fields and shipping lanes under threat, potentially disrupting energy supplies and trade routes. The involvement of multiple nations and the escalation of military actions underscore the broader security challenges facing the international community.
