Tehran: A sweeping military offensive by the United States and Israel continued across Iran on Sunday, targeting missile infrastructure, naval assets and security installations, even as US President Donald Trump indicated he would be willing to engage with a new Iranian leadership following the reported death of Ali Khamenei.
Explosions echoed through parts of Tehran and other cities as fighter jets and long-range bombers struck ballistic missile facilities and strategic command centers. Iranian authorities said more than 200 people have been killed since the campaign began, including senior officials and military commanders.
Israel confirmed that dozens of aircraft carried out coordinated strikes on what it described as critical military and intelligence sites. Targets reportedly included air force compounds, missile command hubs and internal security units accused of suppressing dissent in recent months. The United States said its B-2 stealth bombers dropped heavy ordnance on underground missile installations, while American officials claimed multiple Iranian naval vessels were destroyed during the operation.
In response, Iran launched retaliatory missile barrages aimed at Israel and several Gulf states hosting American military facilities. According to US officials, three American service members were killed in one of the strikes — the first confirmed US fatalities since the conflict escalated. Israeli emergency services reported that missiles hit multiple areas, including Jerusalem and the central town of Beit Shemesh, where casualties and injuries were recorded. Authorities said several individuals remained unaccounted for.
Despite the intensifying hostilities, Trump signaled a potential diplomatic opening. In remarks to a US publication, he said he would be prepared to speak with Iran’s next leadership if approached. The statement marked a shift from his earlier rhetoric, in which he had urged Iranians to challenge their government.
Meanwhile, European powers including the United Kingdom, France and Germany called for de-escalation but also indicated readiness to coordinate with Washington to curb further attacks. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said UK facilities could be made available to support operations aimed at preventing additional missile launches.
The conflict has also spilled beyond traditional battle lines. Gulf nations reported damage to civilian sites following Iranian strikes, with some missiles and drones intercepted while others caused casualties and infrastructure damage. Foreign ministers from several Gulf states said they reserve the right to respond in self-defense.
As both sides exchange increasingly forceful blows, fears are mounting that the confrontation could expand into a prolonged regional war, threatening stability across West Asia and drawing in additional global actors.
