Revolutionary Guards Report Massive Drone and Missile Barrage
Iran says it has struck 500 US and Israeli-linked targets since the conflict began. The claim was made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on the third day of escalating fighting.
In an official statement, the Guards said Iranian forces attacked 60 strategic targets and 500 American military sites. The statement also referred to targets belonging to what it called the “Zionist regime,” meaning Israel.
Iran claimed it launched more than 700 drones and hundreds of ballistic missiles. The strikes were described as retaliation for joint US-Israeli attacks on Tehran that began on February 28.
Those earlier strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Iranian officials say additional military and strategic installations were also targeted in that operation.
The latest Iranian barrage marks one of the largest coordinated drone and missile campaigns in the region’s history. Military analysts say the scale reflects a sharp escalation in Middle East tensions.
US Casualties Confirmed as Israel Faces Direct Hits
According to US media reports, United States Central Command confirmed that 18 American service members have been seriously wounded since the conflict began. The update was shared by spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins.
The US military also confirmed a fourth American fatality. The service member reportedly died from injuries sustained during Iran’s initial wave of counterattacks.
Iranian strikes have targeted US bases and military assets across the Gulf. Countries hosting US forces have come under fire. These include the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.
Some Iranian missiles and drones have struck Israeli territory directly. At least 11 people were killed in Israel, including incidents in central areas such as Beit Shemesh and near Jerusalem. Multiple injuries were also reported.
Air defense systems in Israel and Gulf states have intercepted several incoming projectiles. However, officials acknowledge that some strikes penetrated defenses and caused damage.
The growing casualty figures underline the widening scope of the war. Regional governments remain on high alert as military exchanges continue.
Civilian Toll Rises as Conflict Expands Across Iran
The humanitarian impact inside Iran has also intensified. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported that at least 555 people have been killed in joint US-Israeli strikes across 131 counties.
One of the deadliest incidents occurred in the southeastern city of Minab. A strike reportedly hit an elementary girls’ school. Iranian authorities said 180 students were killed in that single attack.
The scale of casualties has drawn global concern. International organizations have urged restraint and called for immediate de-escalation.
Iran maintains that its retaliation is justified under self-defense. US officials argue that their operations are aimed at dismantling missile and military infrastructure.
The rapid exchange of missile and drone strikes has destabilized airspace and shipping routes across the Gulf. Energy markets have also reacted to the uncertainty.
Diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis appear limited so far. Analysts warn that continued escalation could drag more countries into direct confrontation.
The Middle East now faces one of its most volatile periods in decades. Military operations on both sides show no immediate sign of slowing. Global powers are closely watching as the conflict reshapes regional security dynamics.
