The death toll from the US-Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28 has reportedly risen to 787, according to Iranian state media citing the Iranian Red Crescent. A day earlier, the toll had been reported at 555. The strikes reportedly resulted in the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Now in its fourth day, the military campaign has escalated into one of the most serious confrontations in the Middle East in recent decades, leading to widespread attacks, diplomatic tensions and growing regional instability.
The conflict began with US-Israeli airstrikes targeting what Washington described as strategic military assets and government leadership infrastructure inside Iran. According to reports, senior military and political figures, including Khamenei and members of his family, were among those killed.
US officials stated that the strikes were intended to weaken Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear capabilities and to prevent imminent threats. Israel said its forces had dealt significant damage to Iran’s command structures and Revolutionary Guard facilities.
In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks against US military installations and allied sites across the Gulf region. Satellite imagery reportedly shows that at least six US military locations in Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait and the UAE sustained structural damage.
Tensions escalated further when Iranian drones reportedly struck the US Embassy in Riyadh. Saudi authorities said two drones caused a limited fire and material damage, though no injuries were reported. The embassy issued shelter-in-place advisories and urged US citizens to avoid diplomatic facilities.
Iran’s strikes have also targeted civilian infrastructure in parts of the Gulf, including airports and commercial areas in the UAE. Falling debris from intercepted missiles has reportedly caused casualties and property damage in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Several Gulf nations temporarily closed their airspace, disrupting regional and international travel.
The economic consequences have also been significant. Tehran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, warning that vessels attempting to pass through could be attacked. This announcement has already impacted global energy markets and shipping routes.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities held a large funeral for 165 schoolgirls and staff who were killed in Minab during an attack that Tehran blamed on US and Israeli forces. The incident has been described as one of the deadliest single events of the conflict so far.
As the fourth day of fighting unfolds, hostilities continue with no immediate signs of de-escalation. The US, Israel and Iran remain engaged in ongoing military exchanges, while international concern grows over the risk of a broader regional war.
