Middle East War Escalates as Israel Bombs Tehran and Beirut, Death Toll Rises to 787

The Israeli air force said it carried out “extensive strikes” against Iranian government targets and Hezbollah positions, attacking both capitals simultaneously. Ground troops have also been deployed to southern Lebanon, with the Israeli military describing the move as defensive and aimed at protecting northern Israeli communities.

The Iranian Red Crescent Society updated the death toll from the conflict to 787, marking a significant increase from earlier figures. However, the Norway-based human rights group Hengaw claimed fatalities could be as high as 1,500, including civilians and Iranian security personnel.

The conflict has reverberated across at least nine countries, with strikes reported on oil facilities and other strategic sites spanning a 2,000km area.