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Graphic of the situation
USA and Israel attack Iran: This map shows the attack targets
The USA and Israel have launched massive air strikes on Iran with the aim of a change of power in Tehran. The Islamic Republic responded with counterattacks on Israel and US military bases in several Gulf states. An overview in a graphic.
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Israel announced the start of a “pre-emptive strike” that morning. Shortly afterwards, Trump confirmed attacks by the US military in a video message.
The US President justified the military operation by saying that Iran was further developing its nuclear program and was planning to develop missiles that could reach the US. He also acknowledged that there could be U.S. casualties: “The lives of brave American heroes could be at stake, and we could suffer casualties. That often happens in war.”
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Tensions had increased in recent weeks and Washington relocated US warships to the region. Trump had said he was seeking an agreement to limit Iran’s nuclear program – at a time when the country was struggling domestically with growing discontent after nationwide protests that resulted in many deaths. Representatives of the USA and Iran ended negotiations in Geneva on Thursday without an agreement.
RND/abl (with dpa)