US Israel Iran War Live Updates: 'Tehran Won't Get Nukes Now, Operation To Go On For 4-5 Weeks,' Says Trump

US-Iran War Live: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp's (IRGC) elite Quds Force said that enemies who killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will not be safe "even at home," according to the Iranian state media quoted by Reuters. The Quds Force unit spearheaded Iran's regional strategy of exporting the revolution through affiliated Shi'ite militias in Arab countries.

US-Iran War Live: The Lebanese health ministry has said that 52 people lost their lives so far in the airstrikes conducted by Israel. Israeli strikes were in response to Hezbollah's attacks after the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Israel-Iran-US War Live: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday had a phone call with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kremlin said. The two leaders discussed "the escalation in the Middle East as a result of American-Israeli armed aggression" against Iran. The Kremlin said that both leaders "expressed serious concern over the real risks of the spreading of the conflict, which has already affected several Arab countries and is fraught with catastrophic consequences".

US-Israel-Iran War Live: Speaking at the Medal of Honour ceremony at the White House, US President Donald Trump said that the operations in Iran are liekly to continue for the next 4-5 weeks.  

US-Iran War Live: US President Donald Trump lashed out at the Barack Obama regime over the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, saying that Tehran was on the road to getting a nuclear weapon legitimately, though a deal 'foolishly' signed by 'our country'.

US-Iran War Live: US President Donald Trump said he wasn;t ruling out sending forces on ground in Iran if necessary. "I don’t have the yips with respect to boots on the ground. Like, every president says, ‘There will be no boots on the ground.’ I don’t say it," Trump told New York Post. "I say, Probably don’t need them,’ (or) ‘if they were necessary."

Qatar’s Ministry of Defence said it shot down two Iranian Su-24 bombers on Monday, marking the first time that any country has shot down Iranian aircraft since the latest conflict began, reported CNN.

President Donald Trump told CNN the “big wave” is yet to come in the war with Iran. He is expected to address the conflict later this morning. Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on Iranians to “take advantage” of the opportunity for regime change, even as he said the war was not about ousting the government in Tehran.

As per the news agency, quoting local Iranian media sites, Loud explosions were heard from the area of the nuclear facility and air base in the central city of Isfahan. 

Lebanon on Monday banned the military activities of militant group Hezbollah after it launched an attack on Israel to avenge the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, as reported by Reuters.

 US Central Command spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins said that eighteen US service members have been injured during the military operation in Iran, reported CNN. 

Dubai Airports has announced that flight operations will begin a limited resumption this evening. The flights will depart from both Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central- Al Maktoum International (DWC). Travelers have been urged not to head to either airport unless they have received direct confirmation from their airline regarding a departure time.

In a post shared on X, Dubai Media Office stated, “Dubai Airports confirms that a limited resumption of operations will begin today evening, 2 March, with a small number of flights permitted to operate from Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC). Travellers are advised not to proceed to DXB or DWC unless they have been contacted directly by their airline with a confirmed departure time.”

The Israeli military has launched a series of airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions across Lebanon. 

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Monday that military action against Iran would not result in an "endless war" and emphasised that the objective was to eliminate Tehran's missiles, Navy, and other security infrastructure.

Hegseth explained that the operation had a “clear, devastating, decisive mission” to “destroy the missile threat” from Iran, dismantle its navy, and ensure “no nukes.”

“This is not a so-called regime change war, but the regime sure did change and the world is better off for it,” Hegseth remarked during a press conference at the Pentagon.

"We're targeting them surgically, overwhelmingly, and unapologetically," he added.

Hegseth clarified that the conflict with Iran was not about promoting democracy in the Islamic Republic.

Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, the wife of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has passed away after allegedly succumbing to injuries from the US-Israeli airstrikes. Iran's state media confirmed on Monday that she had “achieved martyrdom” as a result of the attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. During these talks, PM Modi strongly condemned the attacks on both countries. He also expressed concerns for the welfare of the Indian community in these nations. Additionally, he described the attacks on Saudi Arabia as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

PM Modi emphasised the importance of the earliest restoration of regional peace and stability. He thanked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman for prioritising the well-being of the Indian community during these challenging times and expressed gratitude to King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain for his steadfast support to the Indian community in Bahrain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the King of Bahrain, Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman amid Iran-Israel War crisis.

India’s Petroleum Ministry has assured that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure the continued availability and affordability of major petroleum products. The government remains committed to maintaining a stable supply while addressing cost concerns for consumers amid middle east conflicts.

Fifteen US aircraft have left the Rota and Moron military bases in southern Spain since the US and Israel launched weekend attacks on Iran, maps from the flight tracking website FlightRadar24 showed on Monday. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that Spain would not allow its military bases, which are jointly operated by the US and Spain but under Spanish sovereignty, to be used for attacks on Iran, which Spain has condemned.

Governments scrambled on Monday to help travellers get home after the attack on Iran by the United States and Israel shut down flights through the Middle East. Tourists and business travellers found themselves stuck unexpectedly in hotels, airports and on cruise ships, with no word on when many airports would reopen or when flights to and through the Middle East would resume. Governments told stranded citizens to shelter in place.

Russia has accused the US and Israel of attempting to disrupt the process of normalising relations between Iran and its Arab neighbours. 

QatarEnergy, formerly Qatar Petroleum and a state-owned petroleum company of Qatar, announced it will suspend its LNG production due to the escalating Middle East conflict. The company, which operates all oil and gas activities in Qatar including exploration, production, refining, transport, and storage made the decision amid growing instability in the region.

• Oil prices rose sharply Monday as disruptions in tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint raised uncertainty about how US and Israeli attacks on Iran would affect supply to the world economy.
• US oil traded 7.4 per cent higher at USD 71.97 per barrel, while international standard Brent was up 7.7 per cent at USD 78.46 per barrel.Higher oil prices raise the prospect of costlier gasoline prices for US drivers as well as for other goods at a time when people in many countries have been stung by inflation.

According to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, US-Israeli strikes have targeted a diplomatic police center in Tehran amid cross border strikes.

The US military said on Monday that Kuwait "mistakenly shot down" three American F-15E Strike Eagles during a combat mission as Iran attacked the country. The US military's Central Command said the combat included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles and drones, the first time Iran's ageing combat fleet has been engaged in the war.

"The US Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defences," it said. "All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defence forces and their support in this ongoing operation."

In an interview with The Telegraph, US President Donald Trump stated he was "very disappointed" in UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for blocking the use of the Diego Garcia base to carry out strikes on Iran. 

Iran has appointed Sayyed Majid Ebn al-Reza as the country's acting defense minister, according to state media reports. The appointment comes after more than 200 people have been killed since the start of the strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior leaders.

A bomb-carrying drone boat struck a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on Monday, killing one mariner on board, Oman said.

The state-run Oman News Agency reported the attack in the Gulf of Oman off the coast of Muscat, the sultanate's capital. It identified the vessel as the MKD VYOM. It said the dead crew member was from India.

Qatar's Defense Ministry announced that it successfully intercepted two Iranian drones targeting energy facilities, with no casualties reported. One of the drones aimed at a QatarEnergy facility in Ras Laffan, but was neutralised before causing damage.

Senior members of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence, including Sayed Yahya Hamidi (Deputy Minister for Israel Affairs) and Jalal Pour Hossein (Head of the Espionage Division), were eliminated during the opening strike of Operation ‘Roaring Lion,’ guided by precise IDF intelligence. The operation targeted these officials for their roles in terrorism and espionage activities, both domestically and abroad. Additionally, the Israeli Air Force struck the Ministry’s headquarters in Tehran, further escalating tensions.

The Iranian Red Crescent Society reports that 555 people have been killed so far in Iran due to the ongoing US-Israeli airstrikes .

Iranian official told News Agency Reuters that Iran has successfully defended itself against aggressors and will continue to do so.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for a targeted missile strike on the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv.

Saudi defense forces intercepted and destroyed two drones targeting the Ras Tanura oil refinery on Monday morning. Major General Turki Al-Malki, spokesperson for the Saudi Ministry of Defense, confirmed that while the drones were neutralized, falling debris caused a "limited fire" and material damage near civilian and industrial areas.

The facility, which is one of the world's largest with a capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, was temporarily shut down as a precautionary measure. Authorities reported that the fire was quickly brought under control and no injuries occurred.

US President Donald Trump claimed that the joint US-Israeli military operation that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also eliminated his most probable successors. According to Trump, the precision of the strikes has left the Iranian regime without a clear path for leadership transition.

During a phone conversation with ABC News' Jonathan Karl on Sunday evening, Trump described the mission as highly successful, noting that it targeted not only Khamenei but also the primary candidates vetted to replace him. "The operation effectively removed most of the potential leaders," Trump stated, according to Karl. He added that the individuals previously considered for the role are no longer in contention as they were killed in the strikes, leaving "second or third place" options also eliminated.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Monday that Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem is now a "marked target for elimination." The declaration follows a wave of retaliatory strikes by the Iran-aligned group against Israel, launched in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

"The terrorist organisation Hezbollah will pay a heavy price for the firing toward Israel," Katz stated. He asserted that Qassem, who ordered the attacks under Iranian pressure, is now officially a target for the Israeli military.

Katz also extended a direct warning to the remaining Iranian leadership, stating that those who continue the path of Khamenei will face a similar fate alongside other members of the "axis of evil."

The death toll in Iran has climbed to at least 555 following three days of intense military strikes by the United States and Israel, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society. This updated figure, reported by state media and cited by Reuters, marks a sharp increase from earlier official estimates that placed the number of fatalities at just over 200.

Source: Reuters

The Kuwaiti Army announced on the social media platform X that the spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense stated that several US military aircraft crashed this morning, confirming the complete safety of their crews.

He explained that the relevant authorities immediately initiated search and rescue procedures, whereby the crews were evacuated and transferred to the hospital to check on their health status and provide the necessary medical care, noting that their condition is stable.

The official spokesperson added that direct coordination was conducted with the friendly US forces regarding the circumstances of the incident, and joint technical measures were taken.

He affirmed that the concerned authorities are following up on the investigations to determine the causes of the incident, calling for information to be obtained from its official sources.

In a reprieve to students, including several from India, who remain stranded in Iran as tensions escalate in the West Asia region, Tehran has announced that foreign nationals studying in the country's educational institutes will be allowed to exit through its land borders, Tasnim News reported.

Further, the students will be allowed to appear for their term-end examinations and defend their doctoral thesis later, dates for which will be annonced later, the country's science ministry.

Indian authorities have issued repeated advisories urging its students to leave Iran, but the closure of airspace and logistical challenges have complicated evacuation efforts. Students across Tehran, Urmia, and other regions are facing limited access to essential services, including hospitals and educational institutions, which have suspended operations for the next 15 days.

Source: ANI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, voicing significant concern regarding the intensifying conflict in the Middle East.

"India's stance on global tensions is consistent. We have consistently advocated for peace and stability. When two democracies unite, the call for peace gains even greater strength," the PM Modi stated.

Describing the current situation in West Asia as a matter of serious concern, he emphasised India’s support for resolving all disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels. The Prime Minister also confirmed that New Delhi is collaborating with regional partners to ensure the protection of Indian nationals during the unrest.

"We will persist in our efforts with all nations to guarantee the safety of every Indian citizen in the region," he added, highlighting India's dual focus on de-escalation and the welfare of its diaspora.

Airstrikes hit positions of Iraq's Hashid Shaabi forces in Jurf al-Sakhar with no casualties reported, Hashid and army sources tell Reuters.

In its initial response to the intensifying conflict in West Asia, China has formally called on all involved parties to cease military operations. During a press briefing, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran, labeling the actions a violation of international law and expressing a willingness to mediate through diplomatic channels.

A spokesperson for the ministry stated on Sunday that the attack and the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader constitute a severe breach of Iran’s sovereignty and security. The statement further asserted that these actions disregard the UN Charter and the fundamental norms governing international relations.

"China firmly opposes and strongly condemns it," the statement read. "We urge for an immediate stop to the military operations, no further escalation of the tense situation, and joint effort to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East and the world at large."

The US State Department and the US Embassy in Kuwait have issued an emergency security notice warning of a persistent threat from missile and drone (UAV) strikes. The alert follows eyewitness reports of smoke rising from the vicinity of the embassy compound in Kuwait City.

The official directive instructs all US citizens to stay away from the embassy and seek immediate cover. "Take cover in your residence on the lowest available floor and away from windows. Do not go outside," the notice stated. Embassy staff have already moved to secure, on-site shelters. Citizens are further advised to remain indoors, review personal security plans and stay vigilant for potential future strikes as the regional conflict continues.

At least 31 people have been killed in Lebanon following Israeli airstrikes on Monday, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The ministry further reported that approximately 149 others sustained injuries in the retaliatory bombardment.

The escalation in violence between Israel and Hezbollah followed a drone and rocket assault launched by the militant group toward Haifa. Hezbollah's actions were reportedly in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, leading to a renewal of cross-border strikes between the two sides

Iranian media reports claim the United States Embassy in Kuwait sustained damage on Monday during a new wave of regional attacks. According to AFP, thick columns of smoke were observed rising from the diplomatic compound.

This incident follows the crash of a US F-15 fighter jet in Kuwait earlier today. In response to the escalating situation, the US has issued an urgent security alert, instructing all American citizens in the country to seek shelter and stay indoors. The embassy's official directive warned, "Do not come to the Embassy," though further details regarding the extent of the damage were not provided.

A United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle crashed in Kuwait on Monday morning amid intensifying regional hostilities. Social media footage, which has not been officially verified, appears to show the multi-role fighter jet losing altitude and trailing smoke after reportedly being hit.

Despite the loss of the aircraft, the pilot managed to eject safely. Local reports and videos show the pilot being assisted by Kuwaiti civilians following the ejection.

Air raid sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and explosions were heard in Dubai and Doha on Monday, shortly after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported a fresh wave of missile attacks from Iran. The synchronised blasts across the Gulf and the sirens in Israel followed a warning from the IDF regarding the incoming Iranian strikes.

Iranian security chief Ali Larijani stated on Monday that Tehran will refuse any further negotiations with the United States, despite international calls for diplomatic engagement.

The declaration follows joint military strikes by the US and Israel against Iran, which occurred just one day after the two nations concluded a third round of indirect discussions in Geneva. While a subsequent session had been scheduled to take place in Vienna, Austria, the ongoing military confrontation has resulted in a total suspension of all diplomatic talks.

Loud bangs and sirens were heard in Kuwait for a third consecutive day, a Reuters witness said on Monday, after Iran launched retaliatory strikes on the neighbouring Gulf states in response to US and Israeli attacks on the Islamic Republic.

The move marks a total reversal of the UK's previous stance. Just last week, reports surfaced that the British government was blocking US access to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, the primary hub for US heavy bombers in Europe and the strategic Diego Garcia base in the Chagos Islands.

The initial refusal had sparked a diplomatic row, prompting a sharp response from US President Donald Trump on Truth Social. Trump heavily criticised the Starmer administration, linking the base access issue to the UK’s controversial plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a deal he labeled a "big mistake."

While the UK previously cited concerns over international law and potential "war crimes" as reasons for the ban, the government now maintains that providing access is a "limited and defensive" measure. The goal is to destroy missile launchers and storage sites at their source before they can target civilian populations or British interests in the Gulf.

Britain’s RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus was targeted by a suspected drone strike, according to the UK Ministry of Defence and reports from Sky News. Cypriot officials have confirmed the assault, noting that while the base sustained physical damage, no casualties have been reported.

The UK maintains full sovereignty over two strategic military territories on the Mediterranean island, which remains a key operational hub for the British military despite Cyprus being a member of the European Union.

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) will remain closed on March 2 and March 3, following an official directive from UAE authorities. The UAE Capital Market Authority confirmed the suspension, stating the move is a precautionary measure to stabilise financial markets and protect investors amid escalating regional instability.

The decision comes as the Gulf nation manages the fallout from a series of missile and drone strikes. Market closures outside of the established holiday calendar are rare in the Emirates; historically, such pauses have been reserved for periods of national mourning, such as the 2022 passing of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level session of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) this Sunday to evaluate the volatile security environment in West Asia. Following a briefing by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the committee reviewed the fallout from the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent wave of retaliatory attacks across the Gulf.

A primary focus of the meeting was the potential threat to the millions of Indian expatriates living and working in the region. The CCS expressed deep apprehension regarding the safety of these citizens and discussed contingency measures to ensure their security as the conflict spreads.

The Israeli military has issued an urgent evacuation mandate for residents in 53 towns and villages across southern Lebanon, including the key hub of Bint Jbeil, as the regional conflict continues to broaden. This directive follows a wave of Israeli airstrikes and ground raids launched in retaliation for a Hezbollah rocket and drone offensive that targeted a missile-defense installation near Haifa. The sudden escalation has triggered widespread alarm, with verified social media footage capturing scenes of frantic traffic and panic as civilians flee both the southern border regions and parts of Beirut.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) characterised the move as a necessary measure to clear areas where Hezbollah infrastructure is being targeted, while the militant group maintains its strikes are a direct response to the recent assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the evolving regional situation in West Asia amid escalating tensions following recent developments in the Middle East.

Sharing details of the conversation on X, PM Modi said, "Had a telephone call with PM Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the current regional situation. Conveyed India's concerns over recent developments and emphasised the safety of civilians as a priority. India reiterates the need for an early cessation of hostilities."

US President Donald Trump has provided the most specific timeline yet for the ongoing military confrontation with Iran, suggesting that the intensive campaign is expected to last approximately one month.

In a series of brief interviews on Sunday, the President characterised the operation as a "four-week process," noting that while Iran is a large nation, the conflict could potentially conclude even sooner. Speaking with The New York Times, Trump confirmed that the United States and Israel have strategically prepared for four to five weeks of sustained high-level strikes.

Dismissing concerns over the intensity of the engagement, the President emphasised that the US maintains "tremendous amounts of ammunition" stockpiled globally, asserting that maintaining the current pace of attacks will not pose a logistical challenge for the coalition.

The United Arab Emirates has officially shuttered its embassy in Tehran and recalled its top diplomat following a series of deadly Iranian missile and drone attacks. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the retaliatory strikes resulted in four fatalities and left dozens more injured, targeting critical civilian infrastructure including residential districts, international airports, maritime ports and essential service utilities.

In addition to the embassy closure, Emirati officials summoned Iranian Ambassador Reza Ameri to deliver a formal, "strongly worded" protest, condemning the aggression as a direct threat to innocent lives. This decisive move marks a peak in regional tensions as the UAE shifts to a posture of total diplomatic isolation against Iran in response to the breach of its sovereign territory.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah terror group claims responsibility for firing rockets at northern Israel for the first time since the November 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, Times Of Israel reported. The report claimed Hezbollah admitted it targeted a missile defense site south of Haifa in the attack.

Hezbollah suggests that the rocket attack constitutes a “warning” to Israel to “withdraw from occupied Lebanese territory,” referring to the five border posts Israel has held on to in Lebanon, citing security concerns, despite being required to withdraw under the 2024 ceasefire, according to the report.

The Kuwaiti military reported that its air defense systems successfully engaged and neutralised several "hostile aerial targets" over the central region of the country during a dawn operation today. This escalation follows claims from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that it launched a coordinated assault on the Abdullah Mubarak naval base, which hosts American forces, using four ballistic missiles and 12 drones. In a formal statement titled "Announcement No. 4," the IRGC asserted that the strike caused significant infrastructure damage and resulted in numerous American casualties, framing the attack as a direct retaliation for the recent joint US-Israeli military operation that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

While Kuwaiti officials confirmed the interception of these threats to protect national sovereignty, the IRGC continues to maintain that its offensive successfully hit high-value military assets linked to the United States.

Earlier in the day, Trump said that 48 Iranian leaders have been killed in the strikes launched Saturday by the United States and Israel.

"Nobody can believe the success we’re having; 48 leaders are gone in one shot. And it’s moving along rapidly," Fox News quoted Trump as saying.

Former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was reportedly killed in an Israeli-US airstrike in Tehran, according to Iran’s state-linked Iranian Labour News Agency on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condemned Iranian strikes on the UAE and condoled the loss of lives. "Spoke with President of the UAE, my brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Strongly condemned the attacks on the UAE and condoled the loss of lives in these attacks. India stands in solidarity with the UAE in these difficult times," PM Modi said on X.

US President Donald Trump on Truth Social said that nine Iranian naval ships, including some significant vessels, have been destroyed and sunk. "I have just been informed that we have destroyed and sunk 9 Iranian Naval Ships, some of them relatively large and important. We are going after the rest — They will soon be floating at the bottom of the sea, also! In a different attack, we largely destroyed their Naval Headquarters. Other than that, their Navy is doing very well!" he said.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that Tehran's new leadership wants to have a discussion with him and that he has agreed.

"They want to talk, and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them. They should have done it sooner. They should have given what was very practical and easy to do sooner. They waited too long," The Atlantic quoted Trump as saying.

Iran-Israel Conflict Live: In a video message, Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that in a meeting with the Minister of Defence, the Chief of the General Staff, and the Director of the Mossad, he has given instructions for the continuation of the campaign.

Iran-Israel Conflict Live: Israeli Defence Force (IDF) has shared a video of two Iranian aircraft destroyed at the airfield before takeoff.    

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East, EAM S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Oman FM Badr Albusaidi.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar wrote, "Appreciated his assessments and insights on the ongoing conflict."

An Indian citizen is reported to be among the 58 individuals who sustained minor injuries in Iranian military strikes that targeted the United Arab Emirates, according to information released by the UAE authorities.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Embassy in UAE said, "The Embassy is aware of the injury to the Indian national and is in touch with the hospital authorities. The Indian national is out of danger. We are rendering all possible assistance."

The United States Central Command on Sunday denied Iran’s claim of striking the USS Abraham Lincoln. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the US Central Command said, “The Lincoln was not hit. The missiles launched didn’t even come close. The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime.”

Arafi rose to prominence after Khamenei became Supreme Leader in 1989, and he was first appointed Friday prayer leader in his hometown of Meybod in 1992. He was 33 at the time, a young age for such an appointment and a clear sign of Khamenei's trust in him.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said that Iran's new supreme leader will be chosen within 'one or two days'.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps said on Sunday that they had attacked the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Gulf a day after the country's supreme leader was killed in US-Israeli strikes.

"The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln was struck by four ballistic missiles," the Guards said in a statement to local media.

Indian embassies of all affected countries in West Asia on Sunday released emergency helpline numbers for Indian nationals. These emergency helpline numbers have been shared for Indian nationals in several affected countries, including Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, to help them reach out to the embassy amid the escalating security situation.

Kuwait:

+965 65501946

Oman:

8007 1234 (Toll Free)

+968 9828 2270 (WhatsApp)

Iran:

+989128109115

+989128109102

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran raised a red "flag of revenge" over the dome of the Jamkaran Mosque.

Iran's Guards have claimed that they targeted the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln amid the escalating conflict, news agency AFP reported.

According to a report by The Washington Post, Salman made multiple private phone calls to US President Donald Trump last month. The report is surprising as Riyadh had, in January, assured that it would not allow its territory or airspace to be used for an attack on Iran, adding that Riyadh would uphold and respect the sovereignty of the country.

Iran begins 40-day state mourning after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-backed Israeli strikes.  President Masoud Pezeshkian has also announced seven days of public holidays as the nation mourns the loss of its leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Sunday night, after returning to Delhi from Tamil Nadu, to review the situation in the Middle East, news agency ANI quoted government sources as saying.

Brent crude jumped 10% to about $80 a barrel over the counter on Sunday, oil traders said, while analysts predicted that prices could climb as high as $100 after US and Israeli strikes on Iran plunged the Middle East into a new war.

Gulf cities of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Manama report fresh explosions, news agency AFP reports citing local correspondents and residents. The blasts come as Iran vows to avenge the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israel strikes. 

Earlier in the day, loud blasts were heard in Dubai and Doha on Sunday while Oman was hit for the first time as Duqm commercial port came under attack. 

Abu Dhabi's Etihad Towers complex, which house the Israeli embassy and other international missions, suffered damages as debris from an intercepted drone fell. A woman and her child were injured in the incident, Abu Dhabi's state media office said on Sunday.

The death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has left the country in crisis, leading to concerns over oil supplies. However, experts deny the possibility of immediate physical disruption in oil supplies even as the US-Israel war on Iran impacts the Strait of Hormuz.

India may not suffer short-term impact as Indian refiners currently hold sufficient crude inventories to meet at least 10 days of requirements, with fuel stocks covering another 5-7 days. But there may be a rise in crude prices and macroeconomic pressures in the near term, PTI quoted officials and analysts as saying.

At least 150 tankers including crude and liquefied natural gas vessels dropped anchor in open Gulf waters beyond the Strait of Hormuz and dozens more were stationary on the other side of the chokepoint, shipping data showed on Sunday. The tankers were clustered in open waters off the coasts of major Gulf oil producers including Iraq and Saudi Arabia as well as LNG giant Qatar, according to Reuters estimates based on ship-tracking data from the MarineTraffic platform. - Reuters

Iran has chosen senior cleric Alireza Arafi as the jurist member of ⁠Iran's Leadership Council which will rule the country till a new Supreme Leader is elected. ⁠Arafi will be the interim leader, working along side President Masoud Pezeshkian ‌and Supreme Court Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei.

Senior cleric Ayatollah Alireza Arafi to serve as interim Supreme Leader after Ali Khamenei killing, reports Iran news agency.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran considers it its legitimate duty and right to avenge the perpetrators and masterminds of this historic crime," says Masoud Pezeshkian in a statement carried by state TV.

The IDF shares video of Israeli Air Force strikes in Tehran under Operation 'Roaring Lion'.

As many as nine people have been killed in Karachi as protests against Ayatollah Khamenei's death turn violent. The demonstrators tried to storm the US consulate but were pushed back.

Iran's capital Tehran reports a massive blast as Israel's military claims to target the "heart" of the city. A huge cloud of smoke is seen rising from the area where explosion took place.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) postpones board exam scheduled for Monday, March 2, in the middle east. The move came after Israel-Iran war led to unrest in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

CBSE will review the situation on March 3 and announce the new exam date accordingly. It advises students to stay in touch with their schools for further updates.

Yemen's Houthis offer condolences and "deepest sympathy" over Khamenei's death. The rebel group calls the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader as "a heinous crime" and a "flagrant violation of all international laws". Houthis term Israel-US strike on Iran as an "unjust attack on the Islamic nation."

Several loud blasts were heard again today in Dubai and over Qatar's capital of Doha after Iran launched retaliatory strikes on the neighbouring Gulf states, news agency Reuters reports, citing witnesses.

Iran's top security official, Ali Larijani, said a temporary leadership council would be set up. He accused the United States and Israel of trying to plunder and disintegrate Iran and warned "secessionist groups" of a harsh response if they attempt action, state television said. - Reuters

Iran's armed forces chief of staff, Abdolrahim Mousavi, killed in Israel-US strikes, says Iranian TV.

Israel says it has launched fresh strikes on Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death leaves the middle east in turmoil.

US President Donald Trump posts on Truth Social, "Iran just stated that they are going to hit very hard today, harder than they have ever hit before. They better not do that, because if they do, we will hit them with a force that has never been seen before..."

Iranians have been seen taking to the streets to react to the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in video clips that began to emerge after the attack on Saturday. US President Donald Trump said that Iran's ruler had been killed during the surprise wave of US-Israel strikes.

• At 7:30am on Saturday morning, Donald Trump said the US had begun "major combat operations" against Iran. An hour earlier, Israel said it had launched a "preventative" military strike on Iran.
• Fourteen hours later, the US president announced that Iran's supreme leader had been killed in the strikes, confirming reports from Israeli officials. Iran, however, did not confirm the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had ruled the country since 1989, for another four hours. Earlier, a satellite image showed extensive damage at his compound.
• Announcing Khamenei's death, Trump urged Iranians to "take back your country" - a reference to regime change. In a statement earlier this morning, Trump had urged Iranians to rise up against their government - and Benjamin Netanyahu called on the people to "seize the opportunity" to change the regime.
• Trump also said the "heavy bombing" of Iran would continue this week or longer, "as long as necessary to achieve our objective of peace in the Middle East".
• Iran began a "counterattack" of launching drones and missiles towards Israel, with sirens heard in Tel Aviv.
• Iran has also retaliated against multiple US military sites in the Middle East, with reports of attacks in Bahrain, Qatar and UAE.
• More than 200 Iranians have been killed, including 80 children. The US says it has no reported casualties and minimal damage.

Across Israel, city streets stood deserted on Saturday as residents took cover in shelters, while the blasts from Iranian missiles being intercepted reverberated overhead. It was the second time in under a year that Israelis were undertaking this grim wartime routine, having first fled Iranian missiles during a 12-day war between the arch-foes last June.

In the commercial hub of Tel Aviv, Orit Baisa, 42, rushed to an underground car park as soon as he heard the air raid sirens warning of an incoming missile barrage. “We don’t have a shelter, no safe room. The stairwell isn’t a compliant secure room. This (car park) is the safest place there is,” he said. “If this (war) is going to last, then yes, sure, we’ll go back to it, bring the tents, the mattresses, bring all the equipment and live here, like last time,” he said.

Andrea Siposova, who fled to the same car park, said she had prepared for the shelter in case war broke out.
Inside, some people had brought prams, others, who were reservists, their assault rifles while some began praying in a small group.

Israel banned public gatherings, shut schools and workplaces and moved hospital patients to underground facilities on Saturday. Defence minister Israel Katz declared a state of emergency across the country, warning the public of Iranian missile and drone attacks.

Exiled Prince praises Trump amid US-Israel strikes on Tehran, declaring the Iranian people's liberation is near. In a post on X, he thanked Trump and wrote, "The courageous Iranian people have paid a heavy price for freedom. Thanks to President Donald Trump, their hour of liberation is at hand".

Protesters in Srinagar erupted in anger and mourned the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei, calling the attack an assault on humanity. Demonstrations reflect deep sorrow and condemnation over the killing and strikes.

The US accused Iran of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump, escalating tensions amid the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a major attack by Israel and the United States, describing it as the "greatest chance" for Iranians to reclaim their country.

During a UN Security Council speech, US Ambassador Mike Waltz accused Iran of assassination attempts, human rights violations, and global destabilization, stating, "The Iranian regime has even attempted to assassinate the US president - President Donald Trump. Now they are masquerading as a victim. Now we have taken lawful action."

US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that he knows "exactly who" could lead Iran after the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US and Israeli airstrikes.

When asked by CBS News who he believes is making decisions in Iran following Khamenei's death, Trump replied, "I know exactly who, but I can't tell you."

He was further questioned if there was anyone in Iran he would prefer to see as the leader, to which he responded, "Yes, I think so. There are some good candidates."

Regarding who might succeed Khamenei, who had ruled Iran since 1989, Trump said, "I don't know, but at some point they'll be calling me to ask who I'd like."

He added, "I'm only being a little sarcastic when I say that."

Khamenei had never publicly identified a successor, and it remains unclear who might take his place.

In the latest escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict, the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard and a top security adviser have been killed in US-Israeli airstrikes.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s President, Head of the Judiciary, and a Guardian Council Jurist will temporarily assume leadership roles. This arrangement is reported by IRNA as part of a transitional leadership plan.

Zayed International Airport in the UAE’s Abu Dhabi and Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international traffic, suffered damages following an overnight Iranian attack across the Gulf states, authorities said. "Authorities in Abu Dhabi are responding to an incident resulting from the interception of a drone that targeted Zayed International Airport. The interception led to falling debris, which resulted in one fatality of an Asian national and seven injuries," the airport said in a post on X.

Just after US President Donald Trump announced that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was dead, a cryptic message was shared from Khamenei’s account on social media platform X.

“Be nām-e nāmi-ye Heydar, alayhis-salām," the post was written in Persian which translates to, “In the exalted name of Haidar (peace be upon him)."

US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday, claiming to display the “moment of impact of a powerful Iranian missile on the heart of Tel Aviv.” In his caption, he emphasized the footage as proof of the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel, underscoring the escalating cross-border strikes and the rising tensions in the region.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who consolidated theocratic power in Iran over several decades as its supreme leader and sought to transform the country into a regional powerhouse, has passed away at the age of 86. His leadership led Iran into confrontations with Israel and the United States over its nuclear program while suppressing democratic protests at home.

Khamenei reshaped the Islamic Republic after taking control in 1989 following the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Khomeini, the passionate and charismatic figure who led the overthrow of the shah, established rule by Shiite clerics with the aim of spreading religious purity. In contrast, Khamenei, a more reserved and less charismatic figure, took on the task of solidifying and institutionalizing that revolutionary vision.

Khamenei ruled for far longer than Khomeini, significantly expanding the Shiite clerical establishment and transforming the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard into the most powerful force supporting his rule. Under his leadership, the Guard became both a military and economic powerhouse, commanding Iran’s elite forces and ballistic missile capabilities, while also exerting influence across various sectors of the economy.

Iran's IRGC has announced it will soon begin its "most intense" offensive targeting Israel and US military bases. Meanwhile, Iran’s state television has confirmed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in recent strikes. The Iranian government also announced 40 days of mourning following the killing of Khamenei.

The Iranian government has vowed retaliation, calling the killing of Supreme Leader Khamenei in a US-Israeli campaign a "great crime" that will not go unanswered. Tensions escalate as both sides brace for further conflict in the ongoing Israel-Iran war.

Iran’s state television has confirmed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in recent strikes. The Iranian government also announced 40 days of mourning following the killing of Khamenei.

According Iranian media reports, Khamenei was killed in the early hours of Saturday. 

US President Donald Trump declared on Truth Social that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is dead, calling it the "single greatest chance" for Iranians to reclaim control of their country and warning that military action would continue.

"Khamenei, one of the most evil people in history, is dead," Trump wrote, describing the development as "Justice for the people of Iran" and for Americans and others he said were harmed under Khamenei’s leadership.

Trump said the Iranian leader "was unable to avoid our Intelligence and Highly Sophisticated Tracking Systems" and claimed the operation was carried out "working closely with Israel." He added that other senior leaders were killed alongside him and said, "there was not a thing he could do."

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in US-Israel strikes on Tehran, according to multiple Iranian state media outlets. It comes after the US and Israel said Khamenei was killed following a barrage of joint US-Israeli strikes on the nation.