Middle East conflict live updates: Explosions rock cities across Middle East amid new wave of strikes
One person killed after vessel fire in Bahrain - state media
Nazahryth Bernard
One person was killed and two others “seriously injured” after debris from an intercepted missile sparked a fire on a “foreign vessel” in Bahrain’s Salman Industrial City, Bahraini state media reported Monday morning, according to CNN.
The fire is under control and fully extinguished, Bahrain News Agency reported.
The US Navy base in Bahrain was targeted by an Iranian missile attack previously. Videos obtained by Reuters showed large plumes of smoke rising over a US naval base on Sunday.
Iran condemns Israeli attacks on Lebanon
Nazahryth Bernard
Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, has strongly condemned what he called “brutal” deadly Israeli air strikes on southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut, Al Jazeera reports.
Baghaei condemned the “repeated and gross violations of Lebanon’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity” by Israel. The spokesperson also pointed to violations of the November 2024 ceasefire agreement.
He described the silence of those who claim to uphold the “rule of law” and “human rights” in the face of such heinous crimes as “shameful”. He warned that this situation has placed international peace at an unprecedented level of risk.
Saudi Arabia says it intercepted drones trying to attack oil refinery, debris sparked fire
Nazahryth Bernard
Two drones that “attempted to attack” the Ras Tanura refinery this morning were intercepted and destroyed, Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry has said in reports carried by Saudi state-run SPA news agency, according to Al Jazeera.
A “small” fire broke out as a result of the debris falling during the interception operation, it said, adding that there were no civilian casualties.
Iran Guards say launched missile attack on Tel Aviv, Haifa and east Jerusalem
Nazahryth Bernard
Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Monday they had launched missile strikes on an Israeli government complex in Tel Aviv as well as security and military centres in Haifa and an attack on east Jerusalem.
"Among the targets of this tenth wave were a targeted strike on the Zionist regime's government complex in Tel Aviv, attacks on military and security centres in Haifa, and a strike on east Jersualem," said a Guards statement carried by state TV.
It said Kheibar ballistic missiles were used in the attack.
Israel and the United States launched attacks of unprecedented scale against Iran on Saturday, and the Islamic republic has responded with missile strikes regionwide.
– AFP
Iran death toll surpasses 550 - Red Crescent
Nazahryth Bernard
At least 555 people have been killed in US-Israeli strikes across the country, the Iranian Red Crescent Society has said, according to Al Jazeera.
US, Israeli attacks kill 35 in Iran's Fars province
Nazahryth Bernard
A total of 35 people have been killed in Iran's southern Fars province in US and Israeli strikes which began two days ago, local media reported Monday.
"Thirty-five people have been killed in Fars province in American and Zionist attacks," Tasnim news agency reported quoting Ebrahim Bayani, head of the province's state-run martyrs foundation.
"Given the continuation of the enemy air strikes this morning, this number may rise," he added.
– AFP
US embassy in Bahrain says ‘terrorist groups’ plotting attacks on US citizens
Nazahryth Bernard
The US embassy in Bahrain warns “terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking US citizens abroad”, Al Jazeera reports.
In a statement, the embassy encouraged US citizens to avoid hotels in Manama, saying they could be targeted.
“Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning."
US fighter jets crash in Kuwait during Iranian missile attack
Nazahryth Bernard
Several American fighter jets crashed in Kuwait this morning but their crew survived, the country’s defence ministry said.
“Several US warplanes crashed this morning. Confirming that all crew members survived,” the Kuwait defence ministry said in a statement, adding that the cause was under investigation.
“Authorities immediately initiated search and rescue operations, evacuating the crews and transporting them to a hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. He noted that their condition is stable,” the statement added.
– Daily Telegraph
UK preparing to evacuate citizens from Middle East
Nazahryth Bernard
The United Kingdom is working on “every possible option” including mass evacuations to help about 300,000 Britons in countries targeted by Iran, Yvette Cooper has said.
The UK Foreign Secretary said that in addition to the 94,000 people who had used the UK Government’s ‘register your presence’ system, there were more than a quarter of a million in countries that had now been hit by Tehran.
Cooper told Sky News that the “most important thing” for those stranded was to follow local advice, which in most cases was to shelter in place.
Challenged on whether the Government had drawn up evacuation plans, Cooper told Sky News: “We’re working on every possible option. What we want obviously is for a resolution and for air space to be reopened so people can get normal flights back again.
“But of course we are looking at a wide range of options … We have to recognise the scale of this and also the fact that there are strikes still under way.”
She added: “It is a fast moving situation and we are doing everything we can.”
– Daily Telegraph
US aircraft shot down in Kuwait
Nazahryth Bernard
A US F-15 fighter jet has been shot down in Kuwait, Iran state media confirmed.
The plane was shot down early on Monday morning, with footage showing the jet spinning as it dropped from the sky and crashed to the ground.
The US has yet to comment on the attack.
Both pilots were reportedly able to eject themselves and are alive.
The F-15, a highly manoeuvrable and tactical fighter, is considered one of the US’s best fighter jets.
Kuwait hosts the largest US military presence in region, with approximately 13,500 troops stationed in the country, as well as Camp Arifjian, the forward headquarters of US Army Central.
– Daily Telegraph
Central Iran province hit by strikes: Iranian official
Nazahryth Bernard
An Iranian official said Monday that the country's central Yazd province had been hit by Israeli and US strikes on the third day of the conflict.
Several locations "in the cities of Ardakan and Yazd, and one location on the Yazd-Mehriz road, were attacked in American and Israeli strikes," said the province's deputy governor Esmail Dehestani, according to the official IRNA news agency.
– AFP
Strikes kill 27 in northwest Iran over two days - official
Nazahryth Bernard
An Iranian official said Monday that US and Israeli strikes over two days have left at least 27 people dead in Iran's northwest.
"The number of martyrs who have fallen over the past two days in the province as a result of Israeli and American attacks reached 27," said Majid Farshi, director general of the East Azerbaijan province crisis management department, as quoted by the official IRNA news agency.
– AFP
Smoke seen rising from US embassy in Kuwait City
Nazahryth Bernard
Black smoke was seen rising from the US embassy in Kuwait City on Monday after the latest volley of Iranian strikes, an AFP correspondent saw.
Sirens earlier sounded over the city following the latest volley of Iranian attacks, which started across the oil-rich Gulf region on Saturday.
The embassy did not announce it had been hit, but issued a security alert urging people to stay away.
"There is a continuing threat of missile and UAV attacks over Kuwait. Do not come to the embassy," the statement said.
Kuwait's interior ministry said it intercepted an unspecified number of drones targeting the small, oil-rich country at dawn.
One person has been killed and 32 others injured in Kuwait, the health ministry said on Sunday, in Iran's retaliatory attacks after US-Israeli strikes killed its supreme leader.
– AFP
Watch: Heavy traffic in south Lebanon as people flee Israeli strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
Israel army chief says Lebanon fighting could take 'many' days
Nazahryth Bernard
Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir said fighting against Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which began early on Monday, could take "many" more days.
"We have launched an offensive campaign against Hezbollah," Zamir said in a video shared by the military, hours after rocket fire claimed by Hezbollah prompted a wave of Israeli strikes on Lebanon.
"We must be prepared for several days of fighting, many."
– AFP
Nazahryth Bernard
Nazahryth Bernard
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon won’t say whether attacks from Israel and the United States on Iran are illegal but “any actions” to stop the regime “is a good thing”.
Nazahryth Bernard
In his response to the US and Israel’s bombing of Iran, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon suggested his defence policy is the foreign policy equivalent of Homer Simpson quietly retreating into the bushes, writes Thomas Coughlan.
New Zealander in Dubai says life goes on amongst the missile attacks
Nazahryth Bernard
Christopher Brewer told the Herald he feels relatively safe in an amongst the missile attacks on the country.
"The worst thing that has happened is when you look up in the sky and see the missiles coming across and the interceptions happening.
"You get a boom, a bit of a shake sometimes, if you're nearby.
"However, he said life goes on amongst everything happening.
"People are holding up. There have been no signs of people needing to worry too much.
"It puts you on edge a little bit at at first, but if you stay indoors, keep your head down and focus on work, you'll be fine."
Nazahryth Bernard
Iran fires fresh round of missiles towards Israel
Nazahryth Bernard
Iran has fired a fresh round of missiles towards Israel, the IDF has said.
“Defense systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the IDF said in a statement, urging the public to remain safe and shelter.
Sirens were heard across central Israel and an alert was issued warning of a suspected drone infiltration in Upper Galilee and Golan Heights, according to local media.
The Iranian strikes come as Israel confirms that it has begun launching an additional wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, where it has also urged residents to evacuate key villages.
Previous Iranian strikes on Israel killed nine people in Beit Shemesh, the deadliest attack on Israel since the war began.
– Daily Telegraph
Israeli air strikes kill 31 in Lebanon
Nazahryth Bernard
Israeli strikes on Lebanon have killed at least 31 people and wounded 149, the Lebanese health ministry said, as Israel's military threatened to intensify its attacks following Hezbollah rocket fire.
The ministry said in a statement that "Israeli enemy raids" on Beirut's southern suburbs and southern Lebanon "have resulted, in an initial count, in the killing of 31 citizens and the wounding of 149 citizens".
– AFP
Statement from NZ Defence Force
Nazahryth Bernard
The New Zealand Defence Force currently has around 60 personnel from all three Services deployed on Government‑mandated missions throughout the Middle East region. At this stage, deployed personnel continue to provide their mandated outputs where conditions allow. Should NZDF personnel become unable to carry out their mandated duties, the NZDF will take appropriate action to ensure their safety and mission requirements are met.
Explosions rock several cities
Nazahryth Bernard
Explosions were reported in several cities across the Middle East within the past 30 minutes.
- Air raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem after the Israeli military said it had identified missiles launched from Iran. There were no immediate reports of direct impacts, and some of the blasts may have been caused by interception attempts.
- Blasts were reported in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ most populous city, according to AFP reporters.
- Residents in Doha, Qatar, said they heard several loud explosions as air defences appeared to respond to incoming threats.
- Explosions were heard in Bahrain’s capital, Manama.
- Kuwait’s interior ministry said air defence systems intercepted an unspecified number of drones targeting the country, with no casualties reported.
- In Iraq, at least two drones were intercepted near Erbil airport, according to AFP.
– Daily Telegraph
Israeli military launches new wave of strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
The Israeli military said it has begun another wave of strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, the New York Times reported.
Israeli general says to intensify strikes on Lebanon
Nazahryth Bernard
A senior Israeli general says the military would intensify its attacks on Lebanon, after launching strikes in response to rocket fire claimed by Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
"Hezbollah chose the Iranian regime over the State of Lebanon and initiated an attack on our civilians... they will pay a heavy price," said Rafi Milo, head of the Israeli military's Northern Command.
"The strikes continue, their intensity will increase," he was quoted as saying in a military statement.
– AFP
Iran strikes were delayed, officials say
Nazahryth Bernard
The United States and Israel reportedly intended to launch strikes on Iran a week earlier than they did, according to reports.
An Israeli official said the delay was driven mainly by the US side and linked to the need for closer co-ordination with the Israel Defence Forces, according to Axios.
A Trump Administration official described the run-up to the operation as “very back and forth”.
“Some people say it was about the moon or the weather or whatever. But that’s bull,” the official said. “There was a weather thing ... There’s no question. And there was a weather issue more in the mind of the Israelis.”
The pause reportedly allowed time for another round of diplomatic efforts before the decision was taken to proceed with the strikes.
– Daily Telegraph
Latest advice for Kiwis in the Middle East
Nazahryth Bernard
The following can be attributed to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson:
- This is a constantly evolving situation, and our advice can change quickly.
- MFAT and New Zealand’s embassies in the Middle East are closely monitoring developments and will continue to provide consular support to New Zealanders.
- This includes the SafeTravel messages that MFAT is sending directly to registered New Zealanders as important information comes to hand.
- Yesterday, messages were sent to New Zealanders in ten Middle East countries (Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar and the UAE).
- Advisory levels were also lifted to ‘do not travel’ for a number of countries, alongside updates to the ‘Middle East Security Situation’ alert on SafeTravel.
- New Zealand embassies in the region have also shared this advice through their networks.
- Today, we anticipate sending information on the status of airspace and key airports in the Middle East to registered New Zealanders.
- We are closely coordinating with consular teams in a number of countries on how to help our people in the region. However, while attacks continue and airspace remains closed in many countries, our advice to New Zealanders is to shelter in place and leave when it is safe and possible to do so. Many other governments are taking the same approach.
‘They are all dead’: Trump says potential candidates to take over Iran already killed
Nazahryth Bernard
United States President Donald Trump told ABC News that the next potential candidates who might take over Iran were killed.
He said they were killed during the joint strikes by the US and Israel.
“The attack was so successful, it knocked out most of the candidates,” Trump told ABC News.
“It’s not going to be anybody that we were thinking of because they are all dead. Second or third place is dead,” he said.
US Secretary of State set to brief Congress on Iran
Nazahryth Bernard
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to brief Congress on Iran, according to his public schedule.
The BBC reported that the briefing will take place at 4pm ET on Tuesday.
According to the BBC, Rubio is set to speak to House and Senate leaders on Capitol Hill.
Iran will not negotiate with the US – security chief
Nazahryth Bernard
Iran’s top security chief Ali Larijani has said Iran is not open to talks with the US.
Disputing a recent report by the Wall Street Journal, which claimed that Larijani had made a fresh push for nuclear talks, Larijani wrote on social media: “We will not negotiate with the United States”.
He also accused President Donald Trump of “plunging the region into chaos with his ‘delusional fantasies’” and turning his “self-made ‘America First’ slogan into ‘Israel First’”.
Larijani is one of the most senior surviving Iranian officials following the strikes over the weekend and is believed to be a top contender to replace Ali Khamenei as Supreme Leader.
– Daily Telegraph
Iranians warned any protesters will face ‘iron fist’
Nazahryth Bernard
Iranians have received a text message from a verified Revolutionary Guards number, warning them against taking to the streets to protest, the New York Times reported.
“Any action that disrupts security will be viewed as co-operation with the enemy and will be met with the iron fist of the intelligence wing of the Revolutionary Guards,” the message, viewed by the New York Times, said.
At least 14 killed in southern Lebanon strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
At least 14 civilians have been killed in Israel’s strikes in southern Lebanon so far.
According to local media, three civilians have been killed in the town of Shhabiyah, four in al-Sultaniyeh and seven in Toul.
The deaths come as Israel urges civilians to evacuate from more than 50 target areas as it prepares additional strikes against Hezbollah.
Israel is urging the immediate evacuation of residents from more than 50 villages.
– Daily Telegraph
Energy supply the biggest concern for economy
Nazahryth Bernard
Infometrics principal economist Brad Olsen says the Middle East conflict could spike inflation in New Zealand – but it's too early to tell whether that will come to pass.
Olsen says the biggest concern is energy supply.
He says persistently high oil prices could hike domestic fuel prices, affecting household spending and the cost of goods, with companies paying more to transport their stock.
– RNZ
‘I got him before he got me,' Trump claims
Nazahryth Bernard
US President Donald Trump spoke about the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with ABC News chief Washington correspondent Jonathan Karl.
During the phone call interview, Trump reportedly said: “I got him before he got me”.
US intelligence claims there was a Iran-linked plot to assassinate Trump during last year’s election campaign.
President Masoud Pezeshkian at the time said Iran “never” plotted to assassinate Trump.
'The regime is moving all prisoners' – Iranian NZ woman
Nazahryth Bernard
An Iranian New Zealand woman says the attacks on Iran are not illegal, because Iran's regime has a long history of global aggression.
The attacks on Iran have been labelled by some as violating international law, with former Prime Minister Helen Clark calling them a disgrace.
Iranian New Zealand barrister Samira Taghavi told RNZ Afternoons that Iranians she knows here and in Iran welcome the strikes.
She said all peaceful international mechanisms have failed to change the Iranian regime.
Taghavi said the Iranian regime has been committing global attacks since 1979, starting with the US Embassy hostage crisis.
She said she has friends who are political prisoners in Iran, and she is particularly concerned for their safety.
"We are told as of today that the regime is moving all prisoners, blindfolded, to an undisclosed location, which is very very worrying for us. These are political prisoners. It is quite unnerving," Taghavi said.
She said she is very hopeful that the attack will ultimately bring the end of the current regime and the country can transition to a secular democratic Government.
– RNZ
Kuwait Air Defence intercepts ‘hostile drones’
Nazahryth Bernard
Multiple loud bangs have reportedly been heard over Kuwait in the early hours of the morning, CNN reported.
State media reported that air defences intercepted “hostile drones” approaching the country, which arrived via “maritime routes”.
The Director General of Civil Defence said Kuwaiti Air Defence forces shot down “the majority” of the drones, according to the state-run Kuwait News Agency.
Cyprus says drone attack on UK air base caused ‘limited damage’
Nazahryth Bernard
MFAT updates travel advice for Kiwis in the Middle East
Nazahryth Bernard
‘It’s absolutely miserable’: Father fleeing southern Lebanon
Nazahryth Bernard
A man who is fleeing with his family from southern Lebanon has detailed the reality of the evolving situation in voice notes shared with the BBC.
“It’s absolutely miserable,” the 55-year-old shop owner and father of three told the BBC.
“We were just sitting at home, and then suddenly this happened. We were shocked, and we quickly packed, woke up the kids and got in the car. Now we’re stuck on blocked roads because of the massive displacement from the south,” he said.
He told the BBC he was driving “without knowing where we are heading or where we will end up”.
Patients evacuated from Tehran hospital damaged in strike, Iranian state media reports
Nazahryth Bernard
Patients were evacuated from a hospital in northern Tehran on Sunday night (local time) after it was badly damaged in strikes, Iranian state media reported.
Footage posted by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB shows the damaged exterior of the Gandhi Hospital in Tehran, with debris and glass strewn in the street, according to CNN.
An IRIB reporter said patients, including babies, were evacuated from the facility following the strike.
Two witnesses told the Reuters news agency that Israeli strikes hit a hospital in Tehran’s Gandhi St area, saying the hospital was badly damaged and patients were being taken out.
CNN could not independently verify the reports.
World Health Organisation Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus said it was working to verify the incident.
“Reports of Tehran’s Gandhi Hospital being damaged during today’s bombardment of the Iranian capital are extremely worrying,” Tedros said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
“Health facilities are protected under international humanitarian law.”
Air raid in Baghdad’s Jurf al-Sakhr area
Nazahryth Bernard
Iraqi security sources have told Al Jazeera there’s been an air attack on the Jurf al-Sakhr area.
This is located south of the capital, Baghdad.
South Lebanon residents flee after Israeli strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
South Lebanon residents fled by car after Israel struck the area in response to Hezbollah rocket fire, an AFP journalist witnessed.
Heavy traffic coming from the south filled roads in the Lebanese city of Sidon, with cars packed with families and some with mattresses tied to the roof, according to the AFP journalist.
– AFP
‘Heavy exodus’ from parts of Lebanon
Nazahryth Bernard
The Lebanese National News Agency has reported a “massive displacement” in the south.
It said there was a “heavy exodus” in parts of the country.
The Tyre region towards Beirut and northern Lebanon are being impacted, Al Jazeera reported.
Nazahryth Bernard
Christopher Luxon is being asked about how comfortable he would be if he never saw the intelligence and information that the US and Israel "must have" and would have informed their decision to attack Iran.
He said he has never asked for it and reiterated that Iran's regime was brutal and killed its own people. He said actions that stopped Iran's access to nuclear weapons and the brutality of its regime was "a good thing".
Iran getting its hands on a nuclear weapon would be "incredibly bad" for the world, Luxon said.
He is continuing to refuse to talk to the legality of the attacks.
Lebanese Government to hold emergency meeting
Nazahryth Bernard
The Lebanese Government has called an urgent meeting, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA).
CNN reported that some schools in Beirut are opening their doors to evacuees after the Israeli military ordered evacuations.
The Israel Defence Forces said locals have been receiving evacuation calls on their phones.
NZ Govt not 'best placed' on whether US, Israel breached int'l law – Luxon
Nazahryth Bernard
Luxon said the New Zealand Government was not "best placed" to make a call on whether the US-Israel actions breached international law.
"This is a regime that is killing its own people, a regime that has been pursuing a nuclear weapons programme," Luxon said of Iran, but "issues of legality are for US and Israel to talk to". He said New Zealand was not party to the intelligence and information Israel and the US had.
Luxon said New Zealand had long supported actions to prevent Iran accessing nuclear weapons or suppressing its people – "this is an evil regime that is killing its own people".
Asked about New Zealand's stance on the issue compared with Australia's, Luxon said: "When you look at what the Australian Foreign Minister has said, they are saying pretty much the same thing ... they also don't want to ever see Iran with a nuclear weapon ... I don't think our positions are that different."
Luxon says 1750 Kiwis registered in Middle East, but numbers likely higher
Nazahryth Bernard
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said 1750 Kiwis in the Middle East had registered on Safe Travel. In reality, the numbers of Kiwis in the area would be much higher and Luxon urged all Kiwis in affected regions to register on Safe Travel.
Eight more countries have been added to New Zealand's "do not travel" list, which is available online. It includes most of the Middle East, Luxon said.
Reuters poll says quarter of Americans support attacks on Iran
Nazahryth Bernard
The Reuters-Ipsos poll has found that one in four people approve of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran.
The poll found that 43% of respondents disapproved of the war, and another 29% said they were unsure.
Approval among Republicans was reportedly stronger.
Some 55% of Republicans said they approved of the strikes, 13% disapproved, and 32% were unsure.
But 42% of Republicans said they would be less likely to support the operation if it led to “US troops in the Middle East being killed or injured”.
Pentagon chief to hold news conference
Nazahryth Bernard
The Pentagon is holding a news conference on the US operation in Iran.
This will be the first time a top Trump official has faced the media since the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on Saturday, Al Jazeera reported.
Global oil prices rise
Nazahryth Bernard
Global oil prices have risen as Iran continues to launch strikes in response to the attacks by Israel and the US.
During early trade in Asia on Monday, global oil prices jumped by more than 10%, this comes after at least three ships were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, according to the BBC.
Gains eased over the morning, with US-traded oil up by 4% a barrel and Brent crude oil being up by 4%.
A warning has been issued by Iran for ships not to pass through the strait, which carries about 20% of the world's oil and gas.
Watch: Videos show people desperately fleeing Beirut
Nazahryth Bernard
Video verified by Al Jazeera shows heavy traffic in the Lebanese capital, Beirut.
Residents are seen fleeing in the wake of the Israeli attacks, Al Jazeera reported.
Luxon to speak at press conference
Nazahryth Bernard
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will be taking questions from reporters in his weekly post-Cabinet media conference after 4pm.
Luxon has refused to be drawn on whether the coalition fully supports the strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran.
He told RNZ's Morning Report the Iranian regime was an evil one and had been a destabilising force in the Middle East.
Pressed on whether the strikes are legal or morally right, Luxon said it will be up to the United States and Israel to present their case.
Former Prime Minister Helen Clark has criticised the Government's response, saying it's clear the strikes have violated international law.
New Zealand officials say advice has been sent directly to New Zealanders registered as being in ten Middle East countries, telling them to shelter in place and leave when it is safe and possible to do so.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) said it was closely co-ordinating with consular teams in a number of countries, including on contingency plans, though airspace remains closed in many countries while attacks continue.
– RNZ
Donald Trump says deaths ‘could be quite a bit higher’
Nazahryth Bernard
United States President Donald Trump told the New York Times that his administration expects the number of casualties to be “quite a bit higher”.
Three US service members have been killed so far in the war with Iran.
“Three is three too many as far as I’m concerned,” Trump told the New York Times.
He said, according to the projections, “it could be quite a bit higher than that”.
Senior Iranian official seeks to resume negotiations
Nazahryth Bernard
Top Iranian security official Ali Larijani is seeking to resume nuclear negotiations with Washington, less than two days after the US and Israel launched co-ordinated strikes against Iran.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Larijani, one of Iran’s most senior surviving officials, made the outreach through Omani mediators.
Larijani’s outreach indicates he has stepped into a leadership role following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
– Daily Telegraph
'Live situation': Britain responding to suspected drone strike at Cyprus base
Nazahryth Bernard
British forces are responding to a suspected drone strike at its military base in Cyprus, the defence ministry said.
No casualties have been reported.
The strike hit the RAF Akrotiri base at midnight, the ministry said, adding that its forces were handling a "live situation".
"Our force protection in the region is at the highest level, and the base has responded to defend our people," a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said in a statement.
- AFP
Israel tells Lebanon residents to evacuate ahead of strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
The Israeli military told residents of about 50 towns and villages in Lebanon to evacuate, warning of imminent attacks against Hezbollah militants, following rocket fire at Israel.
"For your safety, evacuate your homes immediately and move at least 1000 metres away from your village to open areas," an army spokeswoman said in a statement on X, listing localities in the country's south and east.
- AFP
IDF strikes senior Hezbollah terrorists
Nazahryth Bernard
The IDF said it struck “senior terrorists from the Hezbollah terror organisation in the Beirut area”, following precision strikes against Lebanon.
It also hit a “central” figure from the group in southern Lebanon, according to the Israeli Air Force.
Neither side has yet to confirm the identities of those killed.
- Daily Telegraph
Seven countries issue joint statement condemning Iran’s strikes
Nazahryth Bernard
The United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have issued a joint statement.
CNN reported that the statement condemned Iran’s missile and drone strikes on neighbouring countries.
“The Islamic Republic’s actions represent a dangerous escalation that violates the sovereignty of multiple states and threatens regional stability,” the statement said.
“The targeting of civilians and of countries not engaged in hostilities is reckless and destabilising behaviour.
“We stand united in defence of our citizens, sovereignty and territory, and reaffirm our right to self-defence in the face of these attacks,” the statement said.
US Central Command says strikes will continue
Nazahryth Bernard
Beirut residents wake to a series of explosions
Nazahryth Bernard
In the Lebanese capital, Beirut, people were woken by multiple explosions that were heard throughout the city, the BBC reported.
The explosions were heard at around 3am local time.
Images show fireballs and thick smoke over Tehran
Nazahryth Bernard
Al Jazeera has verified multiple images and videos that depicted fireballs and thick smoke over western Tehran.
Trump says he sees three 'good choices' of who could lead Iran
Vera Alves
US President Donald Trump said that he had a shortlist of three names to lead Iran after he launched a war to topple Tehran's ruling clerics.
Trump told the New York Times that he had "three very good choices" for who could lead Iran, but he did not name them. "I won’t be revealing them now," he said.
"Let’s get the job done first."
– AFP
Donald Trump says the Iran conflict could last ‘four weeks, or less’
Vera Alves
United States President Donald Trump made an estimated timeline for the US conflict with Iran.
“It’s always been a four-week process,” Trump told the Daily Mail.
“It’s always been about a four-week process so, as strong as it is, it’s a big country, it’ll take four weeks, or less.”
Trump avoids reporters as he returns to White House from Mar-a-Lago
Vera Alves
US President Donald Trump has been photographed returning to Washington DC, refusing to answer questions from reporters.
He watched the first strikes in Operation Epic Fury from his Florida resort, Mar-a-Lago, over the weekend.
IDF says it is striking Hezbollah targets across Lebanon
Vera Alves
Emirates and Qatar Airways planes parked at Auckland International Airport
Vera Alves
Human Rights lawyer says US-Israel attack could leave NZ vulnerable
Vera Alves
Human Rights lawyer Kenneth Roth says smaller countries like New Zealand depend on the rule of law to be upheld.
Roth says the US-Israel attack on Iran is an example of how nations like New Zealand could be left vulnerable.
The former head of Human Rights Watch says sovereignty being respected is how small countries can exist.
Roth says the Israeli-US attack on Iran is no different to Vladimir Putin's attack on Ukraine.
– RNZ
Gold price rises 2% on Mideast turmoil
Vera Alves
The price of gold rose around 2% on Monday on the back of turmoil in the Middle East after US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
In early trade in Asia, gold – a safe haven for investors in volatile times – was up 2% at US$5384.52 per ounce.
– AFP
Oil surges as US-Iran conflict escalates
Vera Alves
Oil prices have surged on fears that Donald Trump’s war with Iran will disrupt supply from the Middle East.
Brent crude jumped 13% to around US$82 a barrel when oil markets opened on Sunday night, as airstrikes on Iran continued for a second day. The jump took prices to a seven-month high.
Investors are concerned about disruption from one of the world’s most crucial oil-producing regions. Missile and drone attacks hit fuel ships in the Middle East on Sunday (local time), while more than a hundred other ships were effectively stopped by the troubles.
Trump has suggested problems could drag on for at least a month, saying he expected war with Iran to last for four weeks.
– Daily Telegraph
Drone strikes British airbase in Cyprus
Vera Alves
An explosion has been reported at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Unconfirmed reports suggested the incident, which took place at at around midnight local time, may have been caused by a drone.
A “small drone” had “impacted the airfield” in Limassol, the Cyprus Mail reported.
Other reports suggested the explosion was caused by a missile, with the Sun citing unconfirmed claims that as many as seven missiles were inbound and may have been launched from Lebanon.
If launched from Lebanon, the potential attack is likely to have been orchestrated by Hezbollah, an Iranian proxy group.
RAF Akrotiri is home to thousands of military personnel and their families.
Personnel were apparently told to “move away from windows and take cover behind or beneath substantial, solid furniture”.
Earlier on Sunday (local time), Defence Secretary John Healey said missiles had been fired in the direction of UK bases in Cyprus, although this was denied by the Cypriots.
The incident comes after Sir Keir Starmer granted the United States permission to use British military bases to carry out strikes on Iran.
– Daily Telegraph
Airports Council International calls on governments to extend support
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The Airports Council International (ACI) today called on governments in affected countries to extend all possible support to airports and protect airport personnel, passengers and facilities.
"We stand in solidarity with our colleagues at airports across the region, who in the face of uncertainty and operational pressure, continue to respond with professionalism and compassion to support affected passengers, airlines, personnel and communities," the ACI said.
"We reiterate that airports are like any other civilian infrastructure and must never be targets of military action."
Kiwi students shaken awake by missile blasts in Dubai as they await news on flight home
Vera Alves
Two Auckland students stranded in Dubai awoke to house-rattling explosions this morning yet remain “cautiously optimistic” they can leave Dubai on their scheduled flight home in two days.
Read their full account of events below.
Thousands of Iranians gathered in Times Square today to celebrate the US strikes
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Grounded planes parked at Auckland Airport
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Auckland Airport says it is supporting airlines during the disruption caused by the conflict in the Middle East, which closed several key aviation hubs and put services operated by Emirates and Qatar Airways on hold.
"Auckland Airport is supporting those airlines with aircraft parking and operational assistance while services are paused and airlines work through their plans to resume flying," Auckland Airport said.
"Currently, one Qatar Airways 777 and two Emirates A380s are parked at AKL.
"Airlines will be working to rebook affected travellers. We encourage anyone due to travel through the Middle East in the coming days to check directly with their airline or travel agent for the latest updates.
"Other international flights are operating as scheduled."
Enhanced security measures at US Capitol building
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Fox News said enhanced security measures would be implemented at the US Capitol building amid terrorism concerns.
Although no additional fencing was being planned, officials said there is no specific threat.
The House is out on Monday but the Senate is scheduled to convene on Monday afternoon (local time), Fox News reported.
Former US VP Mike Pence pays tribute to dead American troops
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Former US Vice-President Mike Pence paid tribute to the three Americans killed in action.
Winston Peters touches down in Argentina for Latin America visit
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Meanwhile, New Zealand's Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters has touched down in Argentina, where he is leading a parliamentary and business delegation.
Peters is expected to be in Latin America until March 9. The programme also includes visits to Uruguay, Brazil, Chile and French Polynesia.
He said last week the delegation is there to promote New Zealand’s reputation as a provider of "innovative, high-quality products and services and help create new commercial linkages".
Peters is accompanied by Minister for Courts and Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee, Tim van de Molen, chair of the foreign affairs, defence and trade select committees, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Carmel Sepuloni and Opposition trade spokesman Damien O’Connor.
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The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy says "we are ready to work on developing Europe's shared defensive capabilities".
NZD down by half a US cent
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By late morning, the New Zealand dollar was down by about half a US cent at US59.50c. In the interest rate markets, the two-year swap rate was down five basis points at 2.90%.
UK's Ministry of Defence says it has intercepted an Iranian drone
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The New Zealand Embassy in Abu Dhabi closed on Monday (local UAE time).
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NZ sharemarket down following Iran strikes
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The New Zealand sharemarket opened just over 1% down on light volume in the aftermath of the US and Israeli attack on Iran.
After 40 minutes, S&P/NZX50 index was down 154 points (1.12%) at 13,569, reflecting a sharp fall in Fisher and Paykel Healthcare (FPH) – the market’s biggest stock.
FPH traded at $1.00 a share down (-2.44%) at $39.30 with just under 3000 shares changing hands.
Trump urges Iranian military to lay down their arms or 'face certain death'
Vera Alves
Trump urged the Iranian military and police to lay down their arms and receive immunity or "face certain death", while also calling on "Iranian patriots" to take control of the country.
"I call upon all Iranian patriots who yearn for freedom to seize this moment, to be brave, be bold, be heroic and take back your country.
"America is with you. I made a promise to you and I fulfilled that promise. The rest will be up to you, but we'll be there to help."
Trump says nation grieving 'American patriots' who died in Iran
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US President Donald Trump said the nation grieves for the three "American patriots" who died in Iran's retaliatory strikes and warned there will likely be more deaths.
"America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against basically civilisation.
"They have waged war against civilisation itself. Our resolve and likewise that of Israel has never been stronger.
"America is now again the richest, most powerful nation in the world by far. But the only reason we enjoy the quality of life that we do and the freedom and security is we have done things that others are unable to do.
"But it's because of warriors who are willing to lay down their lives to do battle with our enemies, and they do battle better than anybody."
Trump said an Iranian regime with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a "dire threat to every American" and the US will not allow countries like Iran to "extort the world to their evil will".
"We're undertaking this massive operation not merely to ensure security for our own time and place, but for our children and their children, just as our ancestors have done for us many, many years ago."
Trump said Iran has been attacking the United States for the past 50 years and is the world's number one sponsor of terror.
"We are the world's greatest and most powerful nation," he said of the United States, "so we can do something about what they do."
Trump claims Iran's 'entire military is gone'
Vera Alves
In a video posted to Truth Social, US President Donald Trump Operation Epic Fury was "one of the largest, most complex, most overwhelming military offensives the world has ever seen".
"This wretched and vile man had the blood of hundreds, even thousands of Americans on his hands and was responsible for the slaughter of countless thousands of innocent people all across many countries," Trump said of the dead Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Trump said Iran's "entire military is gone" and many want to surrender.
"They want immunity, they're calling by the thousands."
The US President said the nation grieves for the three "American patriots" who died in Iran's retaliatory strikes and warned there will likely be more deaths.
Ghahraman: Many Iranians celebrating US action toward change
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Iranian-born former Green Party member Golriz Ghahraman told RNZ many in the Iranian community were celebrating US action towards regime change, but some are already concerned about what comes next.
"What's happening in Iran ... is terrifying by any standards. It's pretty mixed, but distressing emotions for any Iranians," Ghahraman said.
"It's our homeland being bombed, but of course we've seen some incredible, unprecedented violence by the Islamic regime against protesters earlier this year."
Iranian-New Zealanders were "waiting with bated breath" to see what the outcome would be, she said.
"There are some who are incredibly hopeful that this will lead to swift regime change, some are deeply worried that what will happen is what we've seen happen to other nations in the region – which is that they'll be devastated and then the previous regime will be reinstated."
Ghahraman was alluding in particular to Afghanistan, which has been under Taliban rule since shortly after the US withdrew troops from the region in 2021.
New Zealand-Iranians with family still in the country were naturally "deeply worried", she said.
Ghahraman, who was also a former UN human rights lawyer, said that although a lot of Iranian expats shared the US desire for regime change, the strikes were still illegal according to international law.
"There's no such thing as a lawful pre-emptive attack on a sovereign nation. The United States knows this.
"This is just absolute fiction in terms of being able to bomb a country because you perceive them as a threat."
Although the Khamenei Government had been incredibly violent and oppressive, it was still hard for some Iranians to see the US as a liberating force, she said.
"We do have a very difficult situation in terms of enormous human rights abuses being committed by both sides and the Iranian people being caught in the middle."
She was calling on New Zealanders to support the Iranian community during this time.
"What we would like is to know that we live among communities that see our humanity and know that the lives of our people, freedom, human rights for our people also matter.
"It's nice to know that in our little communities in Aotearoa, that we are seen", she said.
– RNZ
UK allowing US to use British bases
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