Live: Explosions rock Iran as US and Israel launch strikes

The US Department of Transportation has advised commercial vessels to steer clear of the Gulf region following recent strikes on Iran. In a notice issued by the Maritime Administration, the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea were described as areas witnessing intensified military operations, with ships urged to avoid the zone where feasible. US-flagged, US-owned, or US-crewed vessels have additionally been instructed to maintain a minimum distance of 30 nautical miles (approximately 56 km) from US naval assets to prevent misidentification. Meanwhile, Qatar’s Ministry of Transport announced a temporary halt to maritime navigation within its waters.
Such advisories fall within a state’s sovereign authority to regulate and protect its flagged vessels under international maritime law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). However, disruptions in key waterways like the Strait of Hormuz engage principles of freedom of navigation and transit passage. Any prolonged suspension or military interference affecting international shipping lanes could raise complex questions concerning lawful use of force, neutrality, and obligations to ensure safe passage in international straits.

Jordan’s military announced that it intercepted a total of 49 aerial threats aimed at its territory, including 13 ballistic missiles neutralized by air defense systems and multiple drones brought down after engagement. According to the state-run news agency, while the interceptions caused some material damage, no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far.
Under international law, particularly Article 51 of the UN Charter, Jordan retains the inherent right of self-defense against armed attacks targeting its territory. The interception of missiles and drones constitutes a defensive military response. However, if the projectiles originated from another state, the incident may raise issues of state responsibility, potential violation of sovereignty, and escalation under the laws governing use of force (jus ad bellum).

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reportedly sent a letter to the UN Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council asserting that recent US and Israeli airstrikes amount to armed aggression in violation of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. He stated that Iran is invoking its right to self-defence under Article 51 and will continue military operations until what it describes as aggression is fully halted. The letter adds that all US and Israeli bases and assets in the region will be treated as lawful military objectives within this framework.
The communication centers on competing interpretations of the UN Charter’s provisions on the prohibition of force and the right to self-defence. Any targeting of regional assets must still comply with international humanitarian law, including distinction, proportionality, and precaution, regardless of claims under Article 51.

In the occupied West Bank, daily movement already restricted by hundreds of Israeli checkpoints and gates has further tightened, effectively placing Palestinians under lockdown when crossings are sealed. Following Israel’s announcement of military action against Iran, many residents rushed to supermarkets and fuel stations to secure essential supplies, despite assurances from Palestinian authorities that sufficient food stocks are available for several weeks. The situation is compounded by an ongoing economic crisis, limited cash access, and the absence of public bomb shelters or reliable warning systems.
Movement restrictions in occupied territory engage obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, which requires the occupying power to ensure the welfare and protection of the civilian population. Prolonged lockdowns and lack of protective infrastructure may raise concerns regarding proportionality, civilian protection, and access to essential goods.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency stated that it had received several reports from vessels in the Gulf indicating possible messages about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, though it has not been able to independently confirm these claims. There has been no official confirmation from Iran, according to Reuters. The strait remains a critical global oil transit route, linking major Gulf producers including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key international waterway governed by principles of freedom of navigation under international maritime law, including UNCLOS. Any confirmed closure could raise serious legal implications concerning transit passage rights and the protection of global commerce.

A spokesperson for the IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters stated, according to Fars news agency, that Iran’s armed forces will press ahead with operations and escalate their intensity.
Declarations of expanded military action heighten concerns under international humanitarian law. Any continued operations must comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and necessity, while escalation may further engage the UN Charter’s restrictions on the use of force.

Iran’s Fars news agency reports that a gymnasium in Lamerd was struck during US-Israeli attacks earlier today, with preliminary estimates suggesting more than 15 fatalities. The report claims children were present and engaged in activities at the time of the strike. The account has not been independently verified.
If confirmed, an attack on a civilian facility where children were present would raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law. Civilian objects are protected from targeting, and any military operation must strictly adhere to the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution. Verification of facts remains crucial before legal conclusions are drawn.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said it is closely tracking developments in the Middle East and has urged all parties to exercise restraint to prevent nuclear safety risks. The agency stated it remains in constant contact with countries in the region and, at present, has found no signs of radiological consequences. It added that monitoring efforts will continue.
The IAEA’s role reflects international obligations under nuclear safety and non-proliferation frameworks, including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Preventing radiological harm is central to both treaty commitments and broader principles of civilian protection under international law.

It has been confirmed that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will deliver opening remarks at the Security Council’s emergency meeting on the Middle East, scheduled for 21:00 GMT later today.
The Secretary-General’s address underscores the UN’s central role under the Charter in addressing threats to international peace and security. Such briefings often frame legal and diplomatic considerations for Council members as they assess potential action.

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Jordan’s King Abdullah II held a phone conversation to review the latest regional developments and their impact on stability. Both leaders called for an immediate reduction in hostilities and the reopening of diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation. They also condemned reported Iranian ballistic missile strikes targeting Qatar, Jordan, and other Arab states, pledging continued coordination to protect sovereignty and maintain regional security.
Cross-border missile attacks engage the prohibition on the use of force under Article 2(4) of the UN Charter. Calls for dialogue reflect the Charter’s emphasis on peaceful dispute resolution, while joint security coordination may fall within the scope of collective self-defence, subject to necessity and proportionality.

Kuwait’s state media, citing the civil aviation authority, reported that a drone hit the country’s primary airport on Saturday, leaving several workers at Terminal 1 with minor injuries.
Airports are civilian infrastructure protected under international humanitarian law unless used for military purposes. Any attack impacting such facilities must comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution to avoid unlawful harm to civilians.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah has criticized the recent US-Israeli military action against Iran, describing it as part of what it called a pattern of dominance in the region. The group expressed solidarity with Tehran but did not indicate whether it would take any direct action.
Statements of support from non-state armed groups raise concerns about potential expansion of hostilities. Any involvement by such actors would engage international humanitarian law and may also implicate state responsibility principles if support or coordination is established.

A US official told open news portals that President Donald Trump was briefed in advance that the planned operation against Iran involved significant risks but also potentially substantial strategic gains.
Advance executive briefings on military operations reflect internal decision-making under constitutional war powers. However, the legality of such strikes under international law depends on compliance with the UN Charter, particularly principles governing the use of force, necessity, and proportionality.

A spokesperson for the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) told open news sources that assertions by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) regarding the deaths and injuries of 200 American troops are untrue. The spokesperson also dismissed claims that a CENTCOM vessel had been damaged.
Conflicting wartime claims highlight the role of information integrity during armed conflict. False or misleading statements may raise concerns under international humanitarian law, particularly regarding propaganda and the obligation to avoid incitement or misinformation that could escalate hostilities.

France, Germany, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement calling on Iran to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, stop destabilising regional activities, and end domestic repression. The E3 clarified they were not involved in the recent strikes but remain in coordination with Israel, the United States, and regional partners, urging Tehran to resume negotiations.
The call reflects commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the broader framework of peaceful dispute resolution under the UN Charter. Diplomatic engagement remains the preferred legal pathway for addressing nuclear proliferation concerns.

Qatar’s Interior Ministry has urged residents to remain indoors during the ongoing Iranian attacks. Authorities advised the public to avoid windows and open spaces and to leave their homes only if absolutely necessary until stability returns.
Governments may issue emergency directives to protect public safety during armed conflict. Such precautionary measures are consistent with a state’s responsibility to minimize civilian harm under international humanitarian law principles.

Dubai authorities confirmed that an incident at a building in the Palm Jumeirah area left four people injured. Emergency teams responded promptly, secured the site, and brought the resulting fire under control. The injured were transported to medical facilities, and officials stated that precautionary measures remain in place to ensure public safety.
States have an obligation under domestic and international law to protect civilians and respond effectively to emergencies. Prompt containment and medical assistance align with duties to safeguard life and maintain public order during security incidents.

A representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that the 86-year-old leader remains in good health and undeterred by the ongoing US-Israeli military operations. He expressed confidence that Khamenei would continue to lead with resolve and voiced hope for victory in the conflict.
Statements affirming leadership stability during armed conflict reflect internal sovereignty and political continuity. However, rhetoric regarding continuation of war underscores the relevance of international humanitarian law obligations governing conduct of hostilities and protection of civilians.

Following US-Israeli strikes, Iran has reportedly warned that it may move to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, according to open sources.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical international waterway governed by principles of freedom of navigation under international maritime law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Any attempt to block transit could raise serious legal implications concerning lawful passage rights and the prohibition on disrupting international commerce.

An Iranian drone reportedly hit a site in Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, igniting a significant fire in a building.
Drone attacks impacting civilian-populated areas raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law. The principles of distinction and proportionality prohibit targeting civilian objects and require all feasible precautions to minimize harm to non-combatants and infrastructure.

The United Arab Emirates’ defence ministry announced on Saturday evening that it had intercepted another wave of Iranian missiles directed at the country. Debris from the interceptions reportedly landed in parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, though authorities confirmed no injuries were recorded.
Missile launches against another state engage the prohibition on the use of force under Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, while interceptions may be justified as acts of self-defence under Article 51. Even defensive actions must account for civilian safety, particularly when falling debris affects populated areas.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday denounced as “barbaric” a strike on a school in southern Iran, which followed recent US and Israeli military actions against the country.
Strikes affecting educational institutions trigger serious scrutiny under international humanitarian law. Schools are civilian objects protected from attack unless used for military purposes, and any operation must comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution.

France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced on X that Paris has requested a UN Security Council meeting at 2100 GMT to discuss developments in Iran and the broader Middle East.
Any UN member state may request a Security Council meeting when international peace and security are at risk. Such sessions fall within the Council’s mandate under the UN Charter to address escalating conflicts and promote diplomatic solutions.

Israel’s prime minister’s office released an image of Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in a phone conversation, stating that he was speaking with US President Donald Trump.
Direct leader-to-leader communication during armed conflict reflects diplomatic engagement between allied states. Such exchanges may relate to coordination on security matters, which must comply with international law principles governing the use of force and state sovereignty.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the United Kingdom was not involved in the recent US-Israel military strikes on Iran, emphasizing that Britain had no participation in the operations. He affirmed support for regional partners affected by the conflict and noted that the UK has enhanced its defensive posture in the Middle East. British forces remain operational, with aircraft conducting coordinated defensive missions to safeguard UK nationals, strategic interests, and allies. Starmer also confirmed heightened security measures for British bases and personnel, along with outreach efforts to assist UK citizens in the region.
Defensive deployments align with the right of collective self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, provided actions remain proportionate and limited to protection. The emphasis on non-involvement in offensive strikes reflects sensitivity to international law constraints on the use of force and respect for state sovereignty.

A White House official stated that the Pentagon informed members of the Armed Services Committees early Saturday following the commencement of the strikes. However, several lawmakers, including Senator Jack Reed, the Senate Armed Services Committee’s ranking Democrat, said they did not receive prior notification.
U.S. military actions abroad engage constitutional war powers and statutory requirements under the War Powers Resolution, which mandates timely consultation and reporting to Congress. Any lapse in notification may raise questions of executive compliance with oversight obligations.

The number of fatalities from an Israeli airstrike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab County has climbed to 85, with many others reported injured.
Attacks on educational institutions raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law. Schools are considered civilian objects and are protected unless used for military purposes; any strike must comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution to avoid unlawful civilian harm.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that urgent military measures against Iran were necessary despite the significant risks. He warned that delays could allow Iran’s regime to strengthen its nuclear program and mass-produce long-range ballistic missiles.
Preemptive military action raises complex issues under international law. While Israel may invoke self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, the legality of strikes depends on necessity, proportionality, and the imminence of the threat, as cross-border attacks on sovereign territory are otherwise prohibited.

In a letter to the UN Security Council, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi requested intervention, claiming that recent attacks by Israel and the United States breached international law. He stated that both nations would be fully responsible for any resulting escalation and asserted that Iran considers all bases, facilities, and assets of “hostile forces” in the region as legitimate targets under its right to self-defence.
The letter invokes Iran’s claimed right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter. Accusations of unlawful attacks highlight potential violations of the prohibition on the use of force under Article 2(4) and may be subject to scrutiny by the Security Council regarding escalation and protection of civilians.

The German Foreign Ministry has issued a travel advisory for Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, citing current security concerns.
Travel warnings reflect states’ duty to protect their nationals abroad under customary international law. Such advisories do not restrict the sovereignty of the listed countries but serve as precautionary guidance in response to heightened regional risks.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that efforts to alter Iran’s clerical leadership are “mission impossible” for the United States, noting that millions continue to support the current government.
External attempts to forcibly change a foreign government violate the UN Charter’s prohibition on the threat or use of force against another state’s political independence, highlighting Iran’s legal protections under international law against intervention.

The Israeli military announced that its air force has carried out new strikes targeting missile launchers inside Iran.
Cross-border strikes engage the right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, but targeting within another sovereign state raises issues under international law, including the principles of necessity, proportionality, and respect for territorial integrity.

Iranian missiles struck two locations in central Israel, prompting emergency crews to respond, though no injuries have been reported. Continuous missile activity has been observed since morning, with Tel Aviv and Haifa experiencing the most alerts and sirens along the coast.
Cross-border missile strikes against civilian-populated areas may constitute violations of international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction and proportionality. Prompt emergency response and warning systems reflect states’ obligations to protect civilians under both customary and treaty-based law.

A drone targeted Kuwait International Airport, causing minor injuries to several staff and limited damage to the passenger terminal, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation. Spokesperson Abdullah al-Rajhi confirmed that emergency protocols were immediately enacted, the situation was managed, and the site secured.
Attacks on civilian infrastructure, including airports, may violate international humanitarian law, which protects civilian facilities from deliberate targeting. Prompt emergency response aligns with states’ obligations to safeguard civilians and limit harm under applicable safety and security regulations.

Multiple explosions have been heard in Doha since morning, with initial waves involving three to four blasts intercepted overhead. Smoke plumes indicate missile interceptions by Patriot and THAAD defence systems. In later hours, the number of explosions increased to six or seven, with sustained anti-aircraft fire targeting what appears to be unmanned drones. While Iran is known to deploy many drones, the exact type remains unclear. The US has indicated that this military campaign may continue for at least a week, suggesting further debris and defence activity in the coming days.
These events engage principles of international humanitarian law, including proportionality and distinction in the use of force. Interceptions against drones reflect defensive measures, but ongoing cross-border strikes may raise questions under the UN Charter regarding the use of force and state sovereignty.

Guterres emphasized that all UN member states must uphold their legal duties under the UN Charter, which prohibits threatening or using force against another state’s territorial integrity or political independence.
This reinforces the prohibition on aggression under Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and highlights states’ duties to respect sovereignty and pursue peaceful dispute resolution.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged an immediate halt to hostilities, warning that continued conflict could spark a broader regional war with severe consequences for civilians and stability.
Calls for cessation of hostilities reflect obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and prevent escalation of armed conflict.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that Iran “can end this now” and urged the country to stop further attacks, abandon its weapons programme, and end the ongoing violence and repression against its citizens. He emphasized that such steps are essential for returning to the negotiating table.
Starmer’s remarks highlight obligations under international law for states to refrain from aggression and protect civilians. Ending hostilities and engaging in diplomacy align with UN Charter principles promoting peaceful dispute resolution.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC News that, to his knowledge, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains alive, despite internet outages affecting most of the country. He acknowledged the possible loss of “one or two commanders” but Iranian media have denied reports of deaths among top officials, including the president and army chief.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran seeks de-escalation and is open to negotiations if the US and Israel stop their attacks. While communication channels are limited, he stated that “if the Americans want to talk to us, they know how they can contact me.” He also confirmed that Iran is striking American bases in the region, framing it as self-defence.
Iran’s statements reference the right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, while calls for negotiations align with obligations under international law to seek peaceful dispute resolution. Claims of casualties among officials and attacks on foreign bases may invoke scrutiny under international humanitarian law regarding proportionality and distinction in armed conflict.

An urgent session of the UN Security Council is scheduled for later today at 21:00 UK time (16:00 ET), following UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s condemnation of recent military actions in the Middle East. He stated that these operations threaten international peace and security and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Under the UN Charter, the Security Council is empowered to address threats to peace, and calls for a ceasefire reinforce obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and prevent escalation of armed conflict.