US–Israel attacks on Iran and Lebanon enter 16th day; Iran launches 54th wave of retaliatory strikes
The attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran and Lebanon have entered their 16th day. In response, Iran has launched the 54th wave of retaliatory attacks, firing Sejjil missiles.
US President Donald Trump has appealed to countries around the world, including China, to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but so far no country has announced sending naval ships.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Trump’s claim, stating that Iran has not contacted anyone for negotiations. He also said Iran was not involved in attacks on Saudi Arabia, alleging that American Locus drones are copies of Iranian Shahed drones and are targeting Arab countries. The US has denied Iran’s claims.
Casualties and damage
During the 16 days of conflict in the Middle East:
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1,444 Iranians and 850 Lebanese have been killed.
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Many of the victims include women and children.
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Thousands of people have been injured.
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Around 36,000 residential buildings in Iran have been targeted.
Germany refuses to send warships
The Defence Minister of Germany refused to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Germany’s Foreign Minister said sanctions should be imposed on those responsible for the situation in the strait and added that NATO does not appear to have a direct role in the Strait of Hormuz. He also stated that the US and Israel should clearly explain their objectives.
Germany also announced a €188 million aid package for Lebanon due to the worsening humanitarian situation.
Claim of destroying Iranian Supreme Leader’s aircraft
The Israel Defense Forces claimed it destroyed an aircraft belonging to the former Iranian Supreme Leader during an attack on Mehrabad Airport.
According to Israel, the destruction of the aircraft will disrupt Iran’s coordination with allied countries and hinder its efforts to rebuild military capabilities.
Attack on Red Crescent facilities in Tehran
Israel carried out strikes on facilities of the Iranian Red Crescent Society in Tehran.
A clinic and aid center were damaged, windows were shattered, and medical equipment was destroyed. Earlier attacks had already killed dozens of medical workers.
School strike in Iran
Iranian media reported that a boys’ school in Khomein city was targeted by US-Israeli attacks.
The Shahid Khomeini Boys School building was badly damaged, though no casualties were reported. Nearby houses were also damaged.
Attack on US embassy in Baghdad
An attack targeted the United States Embassy Baghdad.
US air defense systems reportedly intercepted a missile or drone in the air, though it is still unclear what weapon was used.
According to Russian Television, 10 US soldiers were killed after a drone attack on Victoria Base Baghdad caused a fire.
Saudi forces shoot down dozens of drones
The military of Saudi Arabia claimed to have shot down dozens of drones.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defense:
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5 drones were destroyed in the first wave
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6 in the second wave
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23 in the third wave
The total number of drones destroyed in Saudi airspace today has reached 60.
Trump warns NATO
President Donald Trump warned that if NATO does not help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the alliance could face a very bad future.
He said the US is talking to Iran, but he does not believe Iran is ready for negotiations. Trump also said the US is discussing the strait’s security with seven countries.
According to a British newspaper, Trump’s scheduled meeting with Xi Jinping later this month may be delayed.
Missile and drone attack near Baghdad Airport
The Baghdad International Airport complex was targeted with rockets and drones.
Security sources told Al Jazeera that a logistics support camp near the airport was hit by a drone and five rockets.
Israeli strike in southern Lebanon
According to Lebanon’s state news agency, an Israeli airstrike in the Jezzine district killed five people and injured six others.
The strike hit the Qatrani area, and the wounded were taken to nearby hospitals.
Iran says it is using older missiles
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it is currently using missiles produced 10 years ago.
Its spokesperson stated that missiles produced after June 2025 have not yet been used.
Allegation of a “false-flag attack”
Iran’s National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani claimed remnants of the Epstein network are planning a 9/11-like incident and intend to blame Iran.
He said Iran fundamentally opposes such terrorist plans and emphasized that Iran’s conflict is not with the American people.
Flights suspended at Dubai airport
Authorities in Dubai temporarily suspended flights at Dubai International Airport after a drone-related incident.
A fire broke out affecting a fuel tank, and officials advised passengers to contact airlines for updated flight information.
Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports, handling 90 million passengers in 2025.
Drone attack on US-Italian base in Kuwait
An Italian defense official said the Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait was targeted by a drone.
A remote-controlled aircraft belonging to the Italian task force was destroyed, but no personnel were injured.
World largely silent on US request
Several US allies have refused to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, including:
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Japan
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Australia
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France
Japan said it would only consider deployment if the situation crossed a major escalation threshold.
China stated it would work with relevant parties to strengthen diplomatic contacts.
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said Britain is discussing the issue with allies and may send mine-detecting drones, but reports say Keir Starmer has declined to send warships.
South Korea said it is closely monitoring the situation.