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Washington talks about "major combat operations", Israel calls the action a "preventive strike", while Iran reports explosions in several cities
The United States and Israel have launched an attack on Iran.
US President Donald Trump described the ongoing operations as "major combat operations" and called on Iranian government forces to surrender their weapons.
Earlier, the Israeli Defense Minister declared that Israel had launched a "preemptive strike" against Iran, as explosions were heard across the country.
The developments come after weeks of threats and negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program.
What happened in Iran?
Shortly after 09:30 Tehran time (06:00 GMT), Iranian media reported explosions in the capital. Pictures published and verified by the BBC show smoke over Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square.
Explosions were also reported in several other cities across the country, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah. The extent of casualties or injuries remains unknown at this stage.
The Tasnim news agency reported that Iran's airspace has been closed since the attacks.
Trump described the operation as "massive and ongoing."
What have the US and Israel said?
Donald Trump published a video on the Truth Social platform, where he confirmed US involvement.
"A short time ago, the United States military launched major combat operations in Iran," he said.
"Our objective is to protect the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime," he said, adding that Washington's goal is "to ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon."
He also called on Iranian citizens to stay in shelters and not leave their homes.
"When we're done, take over your government. It will be yours for the taking. This may be your only chance for generations," he said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also called on all Iranians to "throw away the yoke of tyranny and bring about a free and peaceful Iran."
Thanking Trump, he reiterated his message that Iran "must not be equipped with nuclear weapons that would allow it to threaten all of humanity."
"Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands."
He also advised Israeli citizens to follow the instructions of the authorities.
Earlier, the Israeli Defense Minister declared a "special and permanent state of emergency" throughout Israel.
How has Iran reacted?
The Israeli military said it had identified missiles fired from Iran towards Israel and was working to "intercept and strike threats where necessary."
Explosions were heard in the city of Haifa and other areas of Israel, but it is currently unclear whether these were direct hits or interference by defense systems.
In the region, Bahrain's state news agency reported that the US Navy's Fifth Fleet service center, located in Bahrain, has been "under missile attack."
This came after Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced that emergency sirens had been activated and urged residents to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place.
Israeli authorities warned citizens to avoid gatherings and not go to school or work unless absolutely necessary. The guidelines will be in effect until 8 p.m. Monday, according to authorities.
According to Israeli media, Israel's airspace has also been closed to civilian flights. /Adapted from Pamphlet /
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