The U.S. and Israel launched air assaults on Iran early Saturday, urging citizens to topple the clerical regime.
Dubbed “Epic Fury” by Washington and “Lion’s Roar” by Jerusalem, the operation killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top officials. It came two days after failed U.S.-Iran nuclear talks.
Iran retaliated with missiles and drones across the Middle East. Its foreign minister called the attack “unprovoked, illegal.”
U.S. Central Command said three troops died and five were badly hurt in Kuwait. CBS, a BBC partner, confirmed their base.
“Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions—and are in the process of being returned to duty,” the command posted on X.
Iran reported 200+ dead and 700+ wounded. A southern school blast killed 165, including children, said state agency Irna. In Israel, nine died in a synagogue shelter strike in Beit Shemesh, BBC’s Hugo Bachega reported. Haaretz noted one dead and 20+ hurt in Tel Aviv. Gulf airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai saw one killed and 11 injured.
Trump termed it “major combat operations” in a video. Congress alone declares war per the Constitution, but presidents hold broad military powers. Republicans backed it; Speaker Mike Johnson noted “Gang of 8” briefings. Democrats decried unauthorised war and sought resolutions—unlikely to pass bar Rep. Thomas Massie and Sen. Rand Paul.
Trump blamed Iran’s “unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder targeting the United States.”
January pledges targeted protest crackdowns. Last June’s Operation Midnight Hammer obliterated nuclear sites, aiding an Israel truce.
Trump called Khamenei “one of the most evil people in History.” State TV confirmed his death; 48 leaders fell, he told Fox News. BBC Verify showed his office ruined.
No ground troops planned. “The president has no plan for any kind of large-scale ground force inside of Iran,” Sen. Tom Cotton told CBS. Air and naval efforts continue across 13 bases with 30,000-40,000 troops and two carriers.
Iran enriched uranium weapons-grade but denies bombs, per BBC’s Jeremy Bowen. U.S. cities alert despite no mainland threat.