Iran war: What is happening on day seven of US-Israel attacks?

On the sixth day of a US-Israeli offensive against Iran, tensions are escalating across the Middle East. Iran has threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime activity is at a standstill. The conflict has spread, with a US submarine sinking an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka. Iranian state media reports over 1,000 deaths and 6,000 wounded within Iran, where the US and Israel are accused of striking civilian infrastructure. Mojtaba Khamenei is a leading candidate to become Iran's next Supreme Leader. Kurdish-Iranian armed groups have launched a ground offensive in northwest Iran, and Iraqi Kurds may join the conflict. Spain has refused US access to its bases for the war, prompting a threat of trade sanctions from the US President.

The ongoing Iran war has caused widespread damage and casualties across the Middle East and beyond. Missile strikes, drone attacks, and shrapnel have impacted numerous countries, leading to embassy closures and economic disruptions. A US submarine reportedly sank an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka. Many governments are urging their citizens to evacuate Middle Eastern countries as airspaces close and travel routes become impassable. Within Iran, at least 1,045 people have died, with a major incident involving a strike on a school in Minab. US-Israeli strikes have targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, government buildings, and leadership compounds, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

The conflict between Israel and Iran has escalated, expanding across the Middle East. Israel launched fresh attacks on Tehran, while Iran claimed responsibility for strikes targeting Kurdish groups in Iraq, accusing them of opposing the Iranian revolution. These strikes against Kurdish groups in Iraq reportedly killed a member of an exiled Iranian Kurdish group. Israel also conducted strikes on Beirut, reportedly killing a Hamas official. The conflict has drawn in other nations, with NATO air defenses intercepting an Iranian ballistic missile fired towards Turkey, although Iran later denied firing any missiles. The US is considering arming Kurdish militias to infiltrate Iran, and a British warship is deploying to Cyprus.

On March 5, 2026, Iran denied Turkish claims that it fired a ballistic missile towards Turkish airspace. Turkiye's Defence Ministry stated that a missile launched from Iran, after passing through Syrian and Iraqi airspace, was intercepted by NATO air and missile defense systems over the eastern Mediterranean. According to Turkiye, the missile was heading towards Turkish airspace, but caused no casualties. Iran's Armed Forces insisted they respect Turkiye's sovereignty and did not launch any missiles. Turkiye has warned against escalating the conflict and reserves the right to respond to hostile actions, while consulting with NATO allies and issuing warnings to prevent future incidents.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the US is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as the US-Israeli war against Iran intensifies. Speaking at a Pentagon press conference on Wednesday, Hegseth stated the campaign was "just getting started" and that more US bombers and fighters were arriving. He emphasized the use of heavy bombs and vowed widespread destruction. The conflict, ongoing for five days, has reportedly resulted in over 1,000 deaths in Iran since Saturday. The US-Israeli offensive has faced criticism from legal experts for violating international law, and humanitarian groups have expressed concerns about the impact on civilians. Reports from Tehran indicate that civilians are bearing the brunt of the attacks, with many residents fleeing the city.

Iran has postponed a planned farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. The three-day program was scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 p.m. local time at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, where large crowds were expected to gather. The postponement followed widespread requests to participate and the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities. No additional reason for the postponement was given, and it is unclear when the ceremony will be rescheduled. Ayatollah Khamenei's death triggers a closely watched succession process overseen by Iran's Assembly of Experts, which will heavily influence its outcome. The ceremony's postponement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

Following a deadly strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls' school in Minab, Iran, on the first day of US and Israeli attacks on Iran, the US is "investigating" the incident, according to US defense secretary Pete Hegseth. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, reportedly killed at least 165 students and injured 96 others. Iranian officials and the UN have condemned the attack, with the UN human rights office calling for an investigation. The UN committee on the rights of the child expressed alarm over strikes on civilian infrastructure, emphasizing the need to protect children from war. The strike occurred amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, resulting in retaliatory attacks from Iran.

On March 4, 2026, a ballistic missile fired from Iran was destroyed by NATO air defenses over the Mediterranean Sea as it approached Turkish airspace after traversing Iraq and Syria. The Turkish Ministry of National Defence reported the incident, stating that the missile was intercepted before entering Turkish territory, causing no casualties. Turkey has protested to Iran, warning against escalating the conflict, and NATO condemned Iran's actions, reaffirming its support for Turkey. The missile's intended target remains unknown. The United States Defence Secretary stated that the event is not expected to trigger NATO's Article 5.

A ballistic missile launched from Iran towards Turkish airspace via Iraq and Syria was intercepted and destroyed by NATO air defense systems on Wednesday. Turkish officials reported the incident, stating the missile was engaged and neutralized over the eastern Mediterranean. While the intended target remains unspecified by the defense ministry, one official claimed it was aimed at a base in Greek Cyprus but strayed off course. Fragments of the interceptor missile fell in the Dortyol district of southern Turkey, near the Syrian border. No casualties were reported as a result of the incident.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump did not rule out deploying ground troops to Iran amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes. Military experts, however, believe a full-scale invasion is unlikely. Instead, they anticipate targeted special operations, such as sabotage or intelligence gathering missions, followed by rapid extraction. Analysts cite Iran's complex geopolitical environment, rugged terrain, and dense population as factors making a traditional invasion impractical. While Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth confirmed no US troops are currently in Iran, he also left the option for deployment open, suggesting a limited, targeted approach rather than a large-scale occupation.

Amidst the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, the Trump administration is reportedly in talks with Kurdish opposition groups to potentially arm them and incite an uprising within Iran. According to media reports, the CIA has a history of working with Kurdish groups in the region, including funding and training fighters in Iraq and Syria. Kurdish rebels have long opposed Tehran, conducting attacks in Iran's Kurdistan province. Analysts warn that such a plan could further destabilize Iran and may not be well-integrated into a broader strategy. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has also targeted Kurdish positions in western Iran during the conflict.

In a video report dated March 3, 2026, *The New York Times* addresses the question of who is in charge of Iran's government following airstrikes that killed Supreme Leader Khamenei and other defense and security officials. Erika Solomon, the bureau chief for Iran and Iraq, provides information about the situation. The report aims to clarify the power structure in Iran after this significant event and identify potential successors or governing bodies. The video report is accompanied by contributions from Nikolay Nikolov, Jon Miller, Stephanie Swart, Rafaela Balster, Samuel Granados, and Christina Shaman.

A new video report published by the New York Times on March 3, 2026, investigates President Trump's decision to pursue military action against Iran. The report, led by Mark Mazzetti, claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to end diplomatic negotiations significantly influenced Trump's decision. The investigation details how few of Trump's advisors voiced opposition to the military action. The video report aims to explain the factors and influences behind President Trump's choice to engage in military conflict with Iran. The report was produced by Mark Mazzetti, Leila Medina, Sutton Raphael, Joey Sendaydiego, Jon Hazell and Rafaela Balster.

Following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Farah Pahlavi, the widow of the last Shah, stated that Khamenei's death, while historically significant, will not automatically lead to the collapse of the Iranian system. Pahlavi, speaking in an interview, emphasized the importance of the Iranian people uniting for a peaceful transition to a law-based state. She urged the international community to respect Iranian sovereignty and support the people's self-determination. Pahlavi also noted that her son, Reza Pahlavi, is preparing for a potential transition should the current republic fall. The attacks and Khamenei's death have created turmoil in the Middle East and raised questions about Iran's future.

On March 3, 2026, Donald Trump contradicted claims made by his Secretary of State and Republican leaders, including Marco Rubio, regarding the impetus for a military attack. These individuals had suggested that Israel pressured the U.S. into initiating the conflict with Iran. Trump refuted this assertion, stating that Israel did not force his hand. Instead, he claimed that he might have been the one to pressure Israel into taking action. The location of these statements and the specific context surrounding the attack on Iran were not detailed in the provided information.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his decision to go to war with Iran alongside the United States. The joint military attacks began on March 2, 2026, targeting police stations and other locations in Tehran, Iran. This move marks a significant shift in Israel's foreign policy, as it enlists the U.S. support for what Netanyahu views as an existential battle against Iran's leadership. The partnership between Israel and the U.S. has been a cornerstone of Netanyahu's diplomatic efforts throughout his career. The war with Iran is seen as a high-stakes gamble that could strain the relationship between the two countries. The conflict has far-reaching consequences, both domestically and internationally.

In March 2026, Iranian government media showcased buildings in Tehran reportedly destroyed by US and Israeli strikes. The damaged sites included a diplomatic police center and a state-owned cultural institute. The media tour followed reported attacks that have resulted in at least 787 deaths in Iran. The strikes, attributed to the US and Israel, targeted government buildings in the capital city. The reason for the attacks was not stated in the provided information. The extent of the damage beyond the two buildings shown remains unknown.

Following a US-Israeli attack on a girls' school in Minab, Iran, a mass funeral was held for the 165 schoolgirls and staff killed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Thousands gathered in Minab, chanting against the US and Israel, with attendees including families and officials. The attack, which occurred on Saturday after the announcement of joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, is described as the deadliest incident targeting civilians in the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have condemned the attack, accusing the US and Israel of deliberately targeting the school. While Israel has denied involvement, Iran has presented the event as a deliberate act of aggression, displaying images of the victims and newly dug graves.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Rubio stated that the strikes were necessary because Iran was not negotiating in good faith with the US. He claimed that President Trump authorized the strikes due to Iran "playing" the US during negotiations. The strikes were intended to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, with Rubio asserting that a world without a nuclear-armed Iran would be safer. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report.

Amidst escalating conflict, Iran faces significant internal turmoil. US airstrikes have caused substantial casualties and targeted key government buildings in Tehran and Qom, including the Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting a new supreme leader after the assassination of Ali Khamenei. The attacks have disrupted government functions and fueled a power struggle over the future direction of the country. Israel appears to have air superiority over Tehran, further destabilizing the situation. The chaos raises questions about the survival of the Iranian government and the evolving objectives of the US military intervention.

In a statement made on March 2, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to increase strikes on Tehran in the coming days. According to NewsFeedIsrael, these strikes will be conducted with the support of the United States. Netanyahu stated his aim is to achieve a goal he has pursued for 40 years. The article also reports that Israel and the US killed Iran's Supreme Leader on Saturday as part of a renewed conflict with Iran. The reason for the increased strikes, according to Netanyahu, is to achieve a long-held objective.

According to a recent statement, the Secretary of State indicated a likely escalation of conflict with Iran. The Secretary warned that Iran would face "hardest hits" ahead. The rationale for the attacks was described using conflicting terms, being both pre-emptive and defensive in nature. This suggests a broader mission scope than initially presented. The Secretary's statement signals a potential intensification of the existing tensions between the United States and Iran. The exact timing and location of future actions were not specified.

Pete Hegseth stated at a Pentagon press conference that the U.S., under President Trump, is "finishing" a long-standing war with Iran, citing past Iranian actions against America. This announcement comes as a fourth U.S. service member has been confirmed killed. The Pentagon briefed the media on Trump's Iran strikes amid demands from Democrats for a Congressional vote to limit the president's war powers. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that only 25% of Americans support military action in Iran, with over half believing Trump's use of force is excessive. The poll also showed that nearly half of respondents would be less supportive of the campaign if gas prices increased. Simultaneously, Israel announced attacks on Tehran and Beirut, issuing evacuation warnings in Beirut.

This article from the Associated Press examines the evolving and conflicting statements made by President Trump and his administration regarding Iran. It highlights instances where the administration issued urgent warnings about Iran's nuclear ambitions, even after previously claiming to have significantly hampered their nuclear program through military action. The article points to inconsistencies in messaging, such as Trump's threats of military strikes following Iranian protests in January, which were later retracted based on assurances that were contradicted by international observers. The analysis focuses on the discrepancies in the administration's public pronouncements on Iran's nuclear capabilities and its actions within the country.

In March 2026, Al Jazeera reported on the potential impact of the hypothetical killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. While some US officials and Iranian opposition groups believe his death would signify the end of the Islamic Republic, Al Jazeera's Soraya Lennie argues that this is not necessarily the case. The report suggests that the Supreme Leader's death and the existence of the Islamic Republic are not inextricably linked. The analysis explores why the system of government in Iran may persist even without its current leader. The report aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Iranian politics and power structures.

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to meet at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, on December 29, 2025. The two leaders have differing reasons for their involvement in the war against Iran, with Israel seeking "regime change" and the US aiming to "defend the American people". Despite the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a mass uprising within Iran has not materialized. Both countries have achieved tactical victories, but the alliance's long-term prospects are uncertain. Netanyahu's political survival is a key interest, as he seeks to distance himself from Israel's failures in Gaza and the West Bank. The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will likely reveal their respective strategies for leveraging their successes.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes in Iran, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated the US aims to destroy Iran's navy, ballistic missile production, and nuclear weapon capabilities. Hegseth indicated the US does not plan to pursue a democratic transition in Iran and avoided providing a timeline for the operation, while emphasizing the US would not get "bogged down." President Trump stated he wouldn't rule out sending ground troops "if they were necessary." General Dan Caine, Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the US has established air superiority over Iran, but expects additional losses and that the operation will not be quick. These remarks are the first from US officials since the strikes began, which killed Iran's Supreme Leader.

In a press briefing at the Pentagon on March 2, 2026, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the widening conflict in Iran. Hegseth asserted that the conflict is "not endless" and declared, "We fight to win." When questioned about the timeframe for the conflict, Hegseth stated that President Trump has the authority to determine its duration, suggesting a potential range of weeks. The briefing also included Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, who participated in the discussion and answered questions. The purpose of the briefing was to provide an update on the ongoing situation in Iran and address concerns about the duration of the conflict.

Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, Donald Trump expressed openness to negotiations with Iran following US-Israeli air strikes. These strikes, aimed at overthrowing the regime, resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous other officials. Iran retaliated with missile attacks, causing casualties and prompting an emergency UN Security Council meeting where Iran accused the US and Israel of deliberately targeting civilian areas. The conflict has triggered a surge in oil prices and raised concerns about global economic stability. Both sides have reported casualties, including civilian deaths and military losses, as the fighting continues.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. The attack, which began on Saturday, aimed to overthrow the Iranian government. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowed a severe retaliation against the US and Israel, threatening a major operation targeting both countries and their regional bases. Further explosions were reported in Doha, Dubai, and Manama, and sirens sounded in Israel as the Israeli military responded to Iranian missile fire. President Trump warned of unprecedented force against Iran if it retaliates. Khamenei had been Iran's supreme leader since 1989.

Following strikes by Israel and the US on Saturday, celebrations erupted in the UK, Spain, and the United States. The cause for celebration was the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during the attacks across Iran. The strikes began on Saturday morning local time. Iranian state TV later confirmed the death of the 86-year-old leader, who had held power for three decades. The attacks and subsequent death of Khamenei are significant due to his long-standing rule and the potential impact on Iranian politics and regional stability.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack on March 1, 2026, Iran has formed a three-member transitional council to govern the country. The council consists of Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei. Arafi's appointment was confirmed by the Expediency Council. According to the Iranian Constitution, this council will oversee state duties until the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member panel, selects a new supreme leader. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and security chief Ali Larijani are also expected to play significant roles during the transition. The commander-in-chief of the IRGC was also killed in the same attack.

Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli air strike, China condemned the action amidst turmoil in Tehran and regional escalation. Despite the political uncertainty, analysts predict China's economic relationship with Iran, as its top oil buyer and trade partner, will remain strong. China is expected to maintain a pragmatic approach to Iran's new leadership, even if Tehran shifts towards the West, potentially impacting Chinese diplomatic and defense goals in the Middle East. A temporary leadership council consisting of Alireza Arafi, Masoud Pezeshkian, and Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei will govern until the Assembly of Experts selects Khamenei's successor. The US President has called for regime change in Iran.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

The article examines the challenges of diplomatic efforts with Iran during Donald Trump's presidency. While President Trump's envoys engaged in negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program, the ultimate goal for both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended beyond nuclear limitations. Their primary issue was the Iranian leadership itself, suggesting a desire for broader changes within Iran. This difference in objectives, focusing on the regime rather than solely the nuclear program, complicated and ultimately undermined the potential for successful diplomatic outcomes. The article implies that this fundamental disagreement on the scope of negotiations contributed to the failure of diplomacy with Iran during Trump's term.

The article outlines the escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. It notes that former US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened Iran and urged them to negotiate. Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu has long considered Iran's nuclear program and regional activities a threat, advocating for regime change. The article then pivots to reporting that the US and Israel have launched major strikes on Iran. The article promises to detail key events in recent months related to these developments.

On February 28, 2026, explosions were reported in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The explosions occurred as Israel launched an attack against Iran. Video footage shows smoke rising in Tehran following the reported Israeli attack. The specific targets and the extent of the damage caused by the attack are not detailed in this brief report. The reasons behind the attack are not mentioned in the article.

Donald Trump claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli military operation launched on Saturday. Trump stated the operation, involving missile strikes and airstrikes, aims for regime change in Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Khamenei was dead and that his body had been recovered, while Israeli officials reported strikes against Iran's nuclear program. Trump claimed that many Iranian leaders were also killed, and that the Iranian military is seeking immunity. Iran's foreign minister initially claimed Khamenei and the president were alive, but Khamenei has not been heard from since the strikes began. The strikes have initiated a new regional conflict in the Middle East.

Following reported Israeli strikes targeting Iranian leadership infrastructure in Tehran, the fate of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is currently unknown. The strikes heavily damaged Khamenei's fortified compound, including his residence and the House of Leadership, with some areas reduced to rubble. While Israeli officials are assessing the results and haven't confirmed Khamenei's death, they haven't ruled it out. Iranian officials insist Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe, despite what they call an assassination attempt. Reports indicate a high-level meeting may have been underway at the time of the strike. Khamenei, who operates with tight security and a network of loyalists, has survived previous assassination attempts and unrest.

In February 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the United States and Israel jointly attacked Iran to eliminate an "existential threat." Netanyahu praised the joint operation, claiming it would empower the Iranian people to determine their own future. He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership in the action. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report. The stated reason for the attack was to remove a perceived threat to the U.S. and Israel.