June 13 – Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel has launched a pre-emptive strike on Iran, targeting dozens of nuclear and military sites. The action comes amid growing fears of Iran’s nuclear capabilities and potential retaliation.

In response, Iran’s state television reported multiple explosions in the capital, Tehran, while the country’s air defense systems were placed on full alert. The cause of the blasts remains unclear, according to Iranian officials.

Israel has also declared a state of emergency, expecting imminent missile and drone attacks from Iran in retaliation.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States is not involved in the strikes and warned Iran not to target U.S. personnel or interests in the region.

The strike follows U.S. intelligence reports that Israel was preparing to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities. Former President Donald Trump, speaking earlier, stated that an Israeli strike “could very well happen,” though he expressed hope for a peaceful resolution.

The situation has caused global markets to react, with crude oil prices surging by more than US$3 per barrel.

U.S. and Iranian officials were expected to continue nuclear talks in Oman on Sunday, but the progress of those discussions now appears uncertain.