Summary
Highlights
The Israeli military has begun striking Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah across Lebanon, following rocket fire claimed by Hezbollah. Israel states these were in response to Hezbollah's projectile fire. Hezbollah claims its actions were a response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Earlier, projectiles from Lebanon triggered sirens in northern Israel. The US, along with Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, has condemned Iran's missile and drone attacks as a dangerous escalation, reaffirming their right to self-defense.
Gulf States vowed to defend themselves against Iranian attacks, condemning them as violations of sovereignty and international law. The Gulf Cooperation Council stated an attack on one member is an attack on all. The Israeli military launched large-scale strikes on Iran, targeting command centers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran's Revolutionary Guards also launched missile and drone attacks, injuring seven in Jerusalem. Israel has banned public gatherings, closed schools, and mobilized reservists. The US confirmed using B2 strategic stealth bombers and destroying Iran's Revolutionary Guard force headquarters, deploying various fighter jets and drones, striking over 1,000 Iranian targets.
US President Trump warned that operations would continue until all objectives are achieved, confirming three US service members' deaths and vowing to avenge them. He announced Operation Epic Fury, hitting hundreds of targets in Iran. Trump claimed 48 Iranian leaders killed and nine Iranian warships destroyed. The UK Prime Minister accepted a US request to use British bases for defensive strikes against Iranian missiles, while reiterating non-involvement in US-Israel strikes. Iran's provisional leadership council, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, held a second meeting after the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei.
The UAE has closed its embassy in Tehran and withdrawn diplomatic staff in response to Iranian missile attacks, condemning them as a dangerous escalation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, condemning the attacks and expressing solidarity, emphasizing de-escalation for regional peace. Modi also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, conveying India's concerns and prioritizing civilian safety and an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Amid airspace closures due to Iran strikes, PM Modi held a cabinet committee on security meeting to discuss the safety of Indians stranded in West Asia. The Indian government had issued advisories for citizens to leave or avoid travel to Iran. Embassies in affected regions have set up helplines and are preparing for possible evacuations, similar to previous operations. Additionally, PM Modi is set to hold talks with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in New Delhi to review strategic partnership, covering trade, energy, agriculture, education, and regional developments.
In sports, Sanju Samson's unbeaten 97 led India to a thrilling five-wicket victory over West Indies in the T20 World Cup Super Eight, securing their place in the semifinals. Chasing 196, India achieved their highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history. They will now face England on Thursday, March 5th.