British media: US and Israel launch second round of air strikes on Iran, Middle East situation continues to escalate
The US-Israel joint military operation entered its second day, with the Israeli Air Force announcing it is "striking the heart of Tehran," focusing on destroying Iran's remaining air defense systems. Trump confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei has been killed in the air strike and warned that if Iran continues to retaliate, it will face an "unprecedented level of strikes." Iran announced the establishment of a temporary leadership body, with Speaker Ghalibaf stating that they will "continue Khamenei's path."
Iran's retaliation has spread throughout the Middle East: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait airports have been attacked, with Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest airport (with over 1,000 flights daily), forced to close, causing one of the most serious international aviation disruptions in recent years. Smoke was seen rising over Dubai port, and a broadcast from the Iranian navy was heard in the Strait of Hormuz declaring a ban on passage. Oil prices are expected to rise sharply.
A girls' primary school in Minaab, southern Iran, was attacked, with official figures stating the number of child deaths has risen to over 100. Iran's UN ambassador said that the US-Israel air strikes have caused hundreds of civilian casualties.
Protesters in Karachi, Pakistan, stormed the U.S. consulate wall, resulting in nine deaths; protests also broke out outside the U.S. embassy in Baghdad. The UK's defense minister said the situation is "serious and continuing to deteriorate."
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1858467498577031/
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