Middle East conflict escalates after Khamenei killing, Iran warns Europe
Tehran/Tel Aviv: The conflict in West Asia has intensified dramatically following reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint strike allegedly carried out by Israel and the United States.
The development has triggered a sharp military escalation across the region, raising fears of a wider war involving global powers. In retaliation, Tehran has continued missile and drone attacks targeting American military installations in the Gulf region.
Iranian forces on Tuesday claimed responsibility for strikes on Israeli positions and a US military base in Qatar, marking the fourth consecutive day of hostilities.
The situation further escalated after Germany, the United Kingdom and France indicated that they could consider “defensive measures” to neutralise Iran’s missile-launch capabilities if regional security deteriorates further. The warning drew a stern response from Tehran.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said any European intervention alongside Israel or the United States would be treated as an act of war. “This is a time of war. Any action against Iran will be considered as siding with the aggressors and will be regarded as a direct act of war against the Islamic Republic,” he said during a press conference.
Meanwhile, Israel claimed that its air force carried out overnight strikes on key Iranian government facilities in Tehran, including the presidential office complex and the building housing the Supreme National Security Council. The Israeli military described the targets as strategic centres of what it called Iran’s “hostile regime infrastructure.”
On another front, tensions have spilled into Lebanon. Shortly after Israel’s Defence Minister instructed troops to secure additional strategic positions, Israeli ground forces reportedly moved into border areas of southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese military sources.
The rapidly evolving conflict has heightened concerns over global oil supplies, particularly with Iran warning that vessels attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz could face attacks. Washington has stated it will safeguard international shipping routes.
With multiple nations now issuing warnings and mobilising forces, the crisis threatens to widen beyond regional boundaries, pushing West Asia into one of its most volatile phases in recent years.
Also Read: Yash’s movie Toxic release date postponed: Actor confirms new global release date
