Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to attack Iran for "as long as necessary" following Israeli forces launching air strikes against Tehran's nuclear programme and military facilities.
Missile strikes have been launched from both sides overnight, with explosions being heard in several parts of Israel.
The air strikes from Israel targeted areas at the centre of Iran's nuclear centre, killing the state's top three military commanders. Israel said they have attacked over 150 targets in Iran, including two nuclear sites.
Iran launched missiles towards Israel in retaliation, with the US confirming it helped Israel intercept them.
Netanyahu has vowed to attack Iran for 'as long as necessary'
REUTERS
Some 34 people have been injured in rocket strikes in Tel Aviv, Israeli emergency services said.
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said Israel started the strikes and initiated the war, and will not be allowed to do a "hit and run" attack.
Khamenei said: "The Zionist regime (Israel) will not remain unscathed from the consequences of its crime. The Iranian nation must be guaranteed that our response will not be half-measured."
He emphasised that Iran will "inflict heavy blows" on Israel.
According to Iran's Fars news agency, senior Iranian military officials said: "This confrontation will not end with last night's limited actions, and Iran's strikes will continue, and this action will be very painful and regrettable for the aggressors."
Iranian state media reports that two deputy commanders have been killed in Israeli attacks. State TV also reported that 60 people, including 20 children, have been killed in an attack on a housing complex in Tehran.
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Damage endured on a building in the Israeli capital, Tel Aviv, from the Iranian attack
REUTERSIn a video broadcast earlier yesterday, Netanyahu said Israel's strikes will carry on for "as long as necessary, to distance and remove the threat as much as we can".
The Israeli Prime Minister addressed the Iranian people on X, stating: "Tonight, I want to speak to you, the esteemed people of Iran. We are in the midst of one of the largest military operations in history - Operation Dawn of the Lions.
"The Islamic regime that has oppressed you for almost 50 years threatens to destroy our country, Israel. The goal of Israel's operation is to prevent the Islamic regime's nuclear and ballistic missile threats. While we achieve our goal, we also pave the way for you to achieve your freedom."
Netanyahu concluded his message, emphasising that "the people of Israel" are with the Iranians.
Many missiles were launched from both sides last night
REUTERS
US President Donald Trump warned Iran that the next wave of "already planned attacks" would be "even more brutal".
The US told the UN that it will continue to seek a diplomatic resolution that ensures Iran will never get nuclear weapons or pose threats to stability in the Middle East, and it would be wise for the Iranian leadership to negotiate at this time.
A Downing Street spokeswoman confirmed Sir Keir Starmer has spoken to US President Donald Trum.
Sir Keir Starmer and Trump discussed the importance of diplomacy and dialogue, with the Prime Minister emphasising concerns about Iran's nuclear programmes.
Iranian state media reports that Iran has warned the US, UK and France against defending Tehran's strikes on Israel, or their bases and ships in the region will be targeted.
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