{"id":321930,"date":"2026-02-28T14:23:22","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T14:23:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/321930\/"},"modified":"2026-02-28T14:23:22","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T14:23:22","slug":"dozens-reportedly-killed-in-israeli-air-strike-on-school-in-iran-the-irish-times","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/321930\/","title":{"rendered":"Dozens reportedly killed in Israeli air strike on school in Iran \u2013 The Irish Times"},"content":{"rendered":"

Main PointsThe US<\/a> and Israel<\/a> have attacked Iran<\/a>, following months of rising regional tensions.US<\/a> president Donald Trump<\/a> said the US military has launched \u201cmajor combat operations\u201d in Iran, saying the country had attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme.Blasts have been heard across multiple Iranian cities, including the capital Tehran and Isfahan, while the IDF reports that Iran has fired missiles towards Israel in response.Iran\u2019s Supreme National Security Council has promised a \u201ccrushing response\u201d to strikes.Irish politicians have condemned the strikes on Iran as European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen called for restraint.<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 minutes ago<\/p>\n

US-Israeli attacks a \u2018dangerous and reckless act of aggression\u2019 that risks plunging the region into wider war – Sinn F\u00e9in<\/p>\n

Sinn F\u00e9in foreign affairs spokesman Donnchadh \u00d3 Laoghaire TD has condemned the US and Israeli attacks on Iran as a \u201cdangerous and reckless act of aggression that risks plunging the region into wider war\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cThese attacks launched by Israel and the United States have the potential to cause profound instability in the region, and a spiral of violence that can spread to several neighbouring countries,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cThese attacks are to be condemned. The bombing of cities such as Tehran and Isfahan puts civilians in immediate danger. These actions threaten to ignite a broader regional conflict.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00d3 Laoghaire said ordinary Iranian families will inevitably suffer as a direct result of the assault. <\/p>\n

\u201cThey did not choose this conflict, yet they will now pay the human cost with fear, destruction and the humanitarian crisis which will follow,\u201d he added. <\/p>\n

\u201cAlready we have seen deaths of civilians, including reportedly some 40 school girls killed in the city of Minab.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe United States\u2019 track record in terms of military interference in the Middle East has been disastrous. Decades of invasions, occupations and bombardment have resulted in immense loss of life and long-term destabilisation. This latest action risks repeating that tragic history.\u201d <\/p>\n

The Sinn F\u00e9in TD said Ireland had a central role at the United Nations during negotiations on the previous Iran nuclear deal and the Government must \u201cbring every political lever to bear in the interests of such a deal, and peace\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cPeace and the safety of all in the region can only be achieved through such a framework, in line with the UN Charter and international law,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt should also be noted that this comes within 24 hours of US-Iranian negotiations which were described by the Foreign Minister of Oman as representing significant progress; negotiations now apparently just discarded in favour of these attacks. <\/p>\n

\u201cThere must be an immediate cessation of attacks and a return to diplomacy. The multilateral system must be paramount and fully upheld. Ireland must speak out as a neutral, credible voice against unprovoked military aggression and the potential for another disastrous war in the region.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"SinnSinn F\u00e9in TD Donnchadh O Laoghaire has condemned US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Photograph: Arthur Carron\/Collins <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 8 minutes ago<\/p>\n

\"ProtestersProtesters gather with Iranian national flags during a demonstration in support of the government and against US and Israeli strikes outside a mosque in Tehran on Saturday. Photograph: Atta Kenare\/AFP via Getty Images \"IranianIranian gather during anti-US and Israeli protests in Tehran, Iran, on Saturday. Photograph: Abedin Taherkenareh\/EPA \" Iranians protest against attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States on Saturday in Tehran, Iran. Photograph: Majid Saeedi\/Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 14 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Joint statement from UK, France & Germany calls on Iran to seek \u2018negotiated solution\u2019<\/p>\n

British prime minister Keir Starmer has condemned Iran\u2019s attacks on neighbouring countries after Tehran retaliated following strikes by Israel and the US on Saturday morning.<\/p>\n

A joint statement by French president Emmanuel Macron, German chancellor Friedrich Merz and Starmer also urged Iran to \u201cseek a negotiated solution\u201d.<\/p>\n

The statement, posted on X by the German Embassy in London, said: \u201cFrance, Germany and the United Kingdom have consistently urged the Iranian regime to end Iran\u2019s nuclear program, curb its ballistic missile program, refrain from its destabilising activity in the region and our homelands, and to cease the appalling violence and repression against its own people.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe did not participate in these strikes, but are in close contact with our international partners, including the United States, Israel and partners in the region. We reiterate our commitment to regional stability and to the protection of civilian life.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"BritishBritish prime minister Keir Starmer has condemned Iran attacks. Photograph: Kin Cheung\/PA Wire <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 33 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Iranian state media are now reporting that 40 people have been killed at a girls\u2019 primary school in the southern town of Minab. <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 44 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Canadian prime minister Mark Carney has expressed support for US air strikes targeting Iran. <\/p>\n

In a statement, he said: \u201cCanada supports the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent its regime from further threatening international peace and security.\u201d<\/p>\n

Carney said despite diplomatic efforts, Iran had neither \u201cfully dismantled its nuclear program, halted all enrichment activities, nor ended its support for regional terrorist proxy groups\u201d. <\/p>\n

\"Canada'sCanada’s prime minister Mark Carney says it supports US strikes on Iran. Photograph: Ian Austen\/The New York Times<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 50 minutes ago<\/p>\n

Conflict should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiation, says Taoiseach<\/p>\n

Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin has said he is \u201cdeeply concerned\u201d by developments in Iran and the real potential that exists for \u201cescalation and wider conflict in the region\u201d.<\/p>\n

In a statement on Saturday, he strongly urged all parties to exercise restraint and to \u201cwork to avoid that outcome\u201d. <\/p>\n

\u201cIreland has always believed that conflict should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiation, in line with the principles of the UN Charter and international law. That must apply in this situation as much as in any other,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cThe protection of civilian life in Iran, in Israel and in all neighbouring countries must now be paramount. There can be no question but that the regime in Iran is a brutal and repressive one.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have seen in recent months how it has massacred and imprisoned its own people when they have risen up in protest against it. It has used its malign influence to drive conflict and division throughout the Middle East.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have been clear that it must never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and we have supported international efforts to ensure its compliance with its obligations in international law.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat goal should be pursued around the negotiating table.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur embassies and missions in the region are working to support Irish citizens affected and are coordinating closely with our international partners to ensure their safety.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will remain in close contact with our international partners, in the EU and the UN, as the situation evolves.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"TaoiseachTaoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin said conflict should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiation. Photograph: Cillian Sherlock\/PA Wire <\/p>\n

This is not merely another round in the decades-long struggle between Israel and Iran and its proxies for regional hegemony. This is the big one and Israel\u2019s aim is regime change, writes Mark Weiss in Jerusalem. <\/p>\n

His full piece can be read here<\/a>. <\/p>\n

\"PeoplePeople along with their dogs take shelter amid reports of incoming missiles on Saturday in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photograph: Erik Marmor\/Getty Images \"PeoplePeople take shelter amid reports of incoming missiles on Saturday in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photograph: Erik Marmor\/Getty Images <\/p>\n

Several Gulf Arab states have said they were targeted by \u200cIranian missiles on Saturday after Tehran pledged to retaliate against strikes by the United States and Israel. <\/p>\n

The United Arab Emirates defence ministry said one person had been killed in Abu Dhabi. <\/p>\n

Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan, all of which have a US military presence, said \u200bthey had intercepted the Iranian missiles. <\/p>\n

\u201cAll occupied territories and the criminal US bases in the region have been struck by the powerful blows \u2060of Iranian missiles. This operation will continue relentlessly until the enemy is decisively defeated,\u201d Iran\u2019s Revolutionary Guards \u200csaid.<\/p>\n

Bahrain confirmed an attack inside its territory and said a service center of the US Fifth Fleet had been struck. <\/p>\n

In Qatar, the military said in a statement that it had intercepted incoming Iranian missiles before they reached Qatari territory after \u201cjoint coordination\u201d. Several successive waves of blasts were heard in the Qatari capital Doha.<\/p>\n

The Kuwaiti army says it dealt with missiles in \u200bKuwaiti airspace, while Jordan said it had downed two Iranian ballistic missiles.<\/p>\n

Global airlines suspended \u200bflights across the Middle East, with flight maps showing the airspace over Iran virtually empty. <\/p>\n

\"AA plume of smoke rises as an Iranian missile hits the sea waters off Haifa, Israel on Saturday. Photograph: Atef Safadi\/EPA \"IsraelisIsraelis are evacuated from their building that got hit by a missile fired from Iran, in Tirat Hacarmel near Haifa, Israel on Saturday. Photograph: Atef Safadi\/EPA \"AA smoke plume rises over Abu Dhabi from the site of an Iranian missile strike on Saturday. Photograph: AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Four people were killed and several others wounded when an Iranian missile struck a building in the southern Syrian city of Sweida on Saturday, the state news agency Sana has said.<\/p>\n

Other missile debris fell in the city of Quneitra and the Yarmouk Basin in Daraa province in southern Syria, according to witnesses. <\/p>\n

Outbreak of war has \u2018serious consequences\u2019 for international peace and security, says Macron<\/p>\n

French president Emmanuel Macron has called for an urgent \u2060meeting of the United Nations Security Council. <\/p>\n

Macron said the outbreak of a war between the United States, Israel and Iran has \u201cserious consequences\u201d for international peace and security.<\/p>\n

In a post on X, he said: \u201cThe current escalation is dangerous for everyone. \u200cIt must stop. \u2060The Iranian regime must understand that it now has no other option but to engage in good-faith negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic \u200cmissile programs, as well as its actions to destabilise the \u2060region.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is absolutely essential for the security \u2060of everyone in \u200cthe Middle East. The Iranian people must also be able to freely build their future. The massacres committed by the Islamic regime disqualify it and demand that the voice be returned to the people. The sooner, the better.<\/p>\n

\u201cFaithful to its principles and aware of its international responsibilities, France is calling for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. I am in close contact with our European partners and friends in the Middle East.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"FrenchFrench president Emmanuel Macron says outbreak of war has serious consequences for international security and peace. Photograph: Yoan Valat\/AFP via Getty Images Regime change in Iran unlikely in absence of mass defections from military<\/p>\n

By mounting air attacks across Iran, Israel and the US have invited Iranian retaliation against US bases and allies in the Gulf, writes Michael Jansen. <\/p>\n

Explosions have hit northern Israel, Qatar, Bahrain, the Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait and Jordan. <\/p>\n

While the US has 13 military installations around the region, the largest is al-Udeid base in Qatar, which was a target of Iranian missiles. <\/p>\n

To pre-empt and prevent Tehran\u2019s retaliation, the US and Israel should have given priority to eliminating Iran\u2019s arsenal of ballistic missiles and drones. <\/p>\n

Military actions have torpedoed Monday\u2019s resumption of Omani mediated protracted negotiations on Tehran\u2019s nuclear programme. The US-Israeli offensive could put an end to negotiations for the foreseeable future. <\/p>\n

In advance of the attack, Gulf states had rejected the use of force as it is too risky and destabilising.<\/p>\n

Iran\u2019s retaliation could involve mining or blocking the Strait of Hormuz through which 20-25 per cent of the global oil supply is shipped daily from the Gulf. This would not only punish Iranian and Gulf oil exporters but also precipitate an \u201coil shock\u201d comparable to that of the 1970s by depriving the West of the oil needed for manufacturing, commercial and personal consumption. <\/p>\n

US civilian installations and interests in the Gulf could also come under Iranian attack from drones or ballistic missiles.<\/p>\n

US president Donald Trump declared the objective of the aerial offensive was to effect regime change rather than prevent Iran from restoring nuclear installations bombed and put out of action by the US and Israel last June. <\/p>\n

However, without the commitment of ground forces to battle regime defenders, Trump\u2019s objective is unlikely to be attained. He has repeatedly called for the overthrow the regime by the Iranian people whose mass antigovernment protests were brutally put down in January. <\/p>\n

Regime change would involve the ouster of the Islamic republic\u2019s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who, according to Iranian official reports, left Tehran and is in a safe location. <\/p>\n

Anticipating his abduction or death, Iran has named the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, as his temporary successor.<\/p>\n

Regime change by popular revolt rarely succeeds unless local armies intervene as happened in Egypt during the 2011 Arab Spring. The essential contributors to regime change in Iran are defection from or division of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and a unified domestic opposition ready and able to assume power. <\/p>\n

The IRCG is not only loyal but is also a pillar of the regime and a stakeholder in the political system and economy. Iran\u2019s security forces have suppressed the domestic opposition while external opponents are divided between monarchists, secularists, nationalists and communists. <\/p>\n

\"SmokeSmoke rises following an Iranian drone attack on Erbil airport in Erbil, Iraq on Saturday. Photograph: Gailan Haji\/EPA <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

\u2018This is not your war\u2019 – Oman\u2019s foreign minister tells US <\/p>\n

Oman\u2019s foreign minister has responded to the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, urging the US not to get involved in the regional conflict.<\/p>\n

Badr Albusaidi was mediating negotiations between Washington and Tehran earlier this week.<\/p>\n

Albusaidi said on X: \u201cI am dismayed. Active and serious negotiations have yet again been undermined. <\/p>\n

\u201cNeither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are well served by this. And I pray for the innocents who will suffer. <\/p>\n

\u201cI urge the United States not to get sucked in further. This is not your war.\u201d<\/p>\n

I am dismayed. Active and serious negotiations have yet again been undermined. Neither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are well served by this. And I pray for the innocents who will suffer. I urge the United States not to get sucked in further.\u2026<\/p>\n

\u2014 Badr Albusaidi – \u0628\u062f\u0631 \u0627\u0644\u0628\u0648\u0633\u0639\u064a\u062f\u064a (@badralbusaidi) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

UAE Irish embassy advises citizens to shelter and avoid unnecessary movement<\/p>\n

Given the deterioration of the security situation in the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, Irish citizens have been advised to shelter in place, avoid unnecessary movement and follow the advice of the local authorities. <\/p>\n

The Irish embassy in the United Arab Emirates said it is also aware that UAE, Kuwaiti, and Qatari airspace has been temporarily closed. <\/p>\n

\u201cCitizens affected are advised to liaise directly with their airlines and follow the guidance provided,\u201d it said. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe will share any updates as more information becomes available. For Irish citizens affected and concerned family members, please contact the duty officer in Dublin at +353 (0)1 408 2000.\u201d<\/p>\n

Given the deterioration of the security situation in the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait, Irish citizens are advised to shelter in place, avoid unnecessary movement. follow the advice of the local authorities. Irish citizens are advised to avoid military and security force installations.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Irish Embassy UAE (@IrelandEmbUAE) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

Iranian state media are reporting that 40 people have been killed after an Israeli air strike hit a girls school in the southern Iranian province of Hormozgan. <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

Helen McEntee says she is \u2018deeply concerned\u2019 at US-Israeli attack<\/p>\n

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee has just repsonded to this morning\u2019s events. <\/p>\n

Irish citizens should not undertake travel to Iran, she said, while also advising against travel to Israel.<\/p>\n

In a statement, McEntee said: \u201cI am deeply concerned that the US and Israel have decided to launch widespread armed conflict against Iran at this time. <\/p>\n

\u201cI am equally dismayed at the Iranian response in recent hours. As was made clear to me on my visit to the region last month, further conflict is profoundly unhelpful and presents challenges which only make already deep divisions more dangerous and unstable and put more lives in the region at risk. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe had hoped that it would be possible to reach a diplomatic agreement to resolve international concerns about Iran\u2019s nuclear programme. Ireland was a strong supporter of the JCPOA and of subsequent dialogue and diplomacy for this very reason. We urge all parties to return to this path of negotiation.\u201d <\/p>\n

The Fine Gael TD said she called on \u201call sides to de-escalate\u201d. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe hope also that other states in the region will exercise restraint – a wider conflict will increase regional instability.\u201d<\/p>\n

She said there are a small number of Irish citizens in Iran, most of whom have been resident in the country for many years. <\/p>\n

\u201cI fully understand the concerns of Irish citizens in the region, and the concerns of their families and friends in Ireland and around the world,\u201d she added. <\/p>\n

\u201cOur embassies in the region are actively engaged to support Irish citizens who are affected.\u201d<\/p>\n

The travel advice remains that Irish citizens should not undertake travel to Iran. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe also advise against travel to Israel. Our advice at this time to citizens in the region is to shelter in place,\u201d she said. \u201cYou should follow the directions of the local authorities and advice issued on social media by the Irish embassy to your country of residence.\u201d<\/p>\n

Embassies in the region are closely monitoring the situation and continuing to provide consular assistance. <\/p>\n

Relatives and friends who have queries or concerns about family members in the region to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade consular team in Dublin at +353 1 4082000.<\/p>\n

McEntee said she will remain in close contact with EU and international partners as the situation continues to evolve.<\/p>\n

\"MinisterMinister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee said she was deeply concerned at air strikes. Photograph: Chris Maddaloni\/The Irish Times <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

It is unthinkable Taoiseach would go to White House to give shamrock to Trump, says PBP TD <\/p>\n

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy has called on Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin to unequivocally condemn the US and Israeli attacks on Iran. <\/p>\n

He has also called for the Taoiseach\u2019s upcoming visit to the White House to be cancelled. <\/p>\n

The Dublin South-West TD said: \u201cThe United States and Israel have launched a co-ordinated attack on Iran. This is an unprovoked attack that has no justification. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe do not want more prevarication and weasel words from the Taoiseach. He must immediately and unreservedly condemn the United States, as well as Israel, for this shocking violence and he must demand that Trump ends this war on Iran.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is unthinkable that the Taoiseach would go to the White House shortly to give shamrock to Trump. Our national day cannot be used to whitewash Trump and his wars of aggression. <\/p>\n

\u201cIt would be a travesty and a national embarrassment. Many will die in this latest atrocity started by Trump. He is a war criminal and the St Patrick\u2019s Day engagement must be cancelled.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"PaulPaul Murphy has spoken out against the US and Israeli attack on Iran. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 2 hours ago<\/p>\n

EU aviation safety agency recommends air operators avoid operating in region of ongoing military intervention <\/p>\n

The EU aviation \u2060safety agency EASA has recommended that air operators avoid operating at all flight levels and altitudes \u200cin \u2060the region of ongoing military intervention in the Middle East. <\/p>\n

In a safety advisory \u2060note, EASA \u200csaid there was a high \u2060risk to \u200ccivil aviation in the region and that the \u2060entire affected airspace was vulnerable \u2060to spillover risks, misidentification, miscalculation and failure of interception procedures.<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

The Irish Defence Forces has confirmed that Defence Forces personnel in missions across the Middle East, UNDOF, UNIFIL and UNTSO, are well and accounted for. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe are continuing to monitor the situation across the region and our personnel remain committed to completing their mandated tasks,\u201d it said on Saturday. <\/p>\n

Oglaigh na h\u00c9ireann can confirm that Defence Forces personnel in missions across the Middle East, UNDOF, UNIFIL and UNTSO, are well and accounted for. We are continuing to monitor the situation across the region and our personnel remain committed to completing their mandated\u2026 pic.twitter.com\/gcO4kAgGhV<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 \u00d3glaigh na h\u00c9ireann (@defenceforces) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

US president Donald Trump has told the Washington Post that his main concern is \u201cfreedom\u201d for the Iranian people.<\/p>\n

In a brief phone call in the early hours of this morning, he said he wanted Iran to be a place that\u2019s \u201csafe\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I want is freedom for the people,\u201d Trump told the publication, when asked about what he hoped his legacy would be as a result of the operation. <\/p>\n

\u201cI want a safe nation, and that\u2019s what we\u2019re going to have.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"USUS president Donald Trump delivering a video address on social media announcing the US and Israeli attack on Iran on Saturday. <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

One person dead in Abu Dhabi following \u2018blatant attack by Iranian ballistic missiles\u2019, says UAE defence ministry <\/p>\n

A person has been killed after strikes in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates has confirmed. <\/p>\n

The civilian, who is of \u201cAsian nationality\u201d, died after debris fell on a residential area in Abu Dhabi, its defence ministry said in a post on X. <\/p>\n

It said several missiles targeting the country had been successfully intercepted following a \u201cblatant attack today by Iranian ballistic missiles\u201d. <\/p>\n

Missile interceptions were also reported in Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan. <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

UK government says it stands ready to \u2018protect our interests\u2019 but does not want to see \u2018further escalation\u2019<\/p>\n

The UK Government has responded to this morning\u2019s air strikes in Iran. In a statement, it said it stands ready to \u201cprotect our interests\u201d but does not want to see \u201cfurther escalation into a wider regional conflict\u201d. <\/p>\n

\u201cIran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and that is why we have continually supported efforts to reach a negotiated solution,\u201d a UK government spokesperson said. <\/p>\n

\u201cOur immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region and we will provide them with consular assistance, available 24\/7. <\/p>\n

\u201cAs part of our long-standing commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East, we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region, which we have recently bolstered. We stand ready to protect our interests. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

Dublin Airport has said airspace constraints in the Middle East mean there is potential for flights to and from the region to be disrupted on Saturday. <\/p>\n

\u201cAs always, passengers should contact their airline directly for updates regarding the status of their flight,\u201d it said. <\/p>\n

Airspace constraints in the Middle East mean there is potential for flights to and from the region to be disrupted today (Saturday).<\/p>\n

As always, passengers should contact their airline directly for updates regarding the status of their flight. \u2708\ufe0f pic.twitter.com\/htFv0o4HUh<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

Ursula von der Leyen calls for all parties to \u2018exercise maximum restraint and protect civilians\u2019<\/p>\n

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has said the developments in Iran are \u201cgreatly concerning\u201d. <\/p>\n

In a statement on X, she said: \u201cWe remain in close contact with our partners in the region. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to safeguarding regional security and stability. <\/p>\n

\u201cEnsuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe European Union has adopted extensive sanctions in response to the actions of Iran\u2019s murderous regime and the Revolutionary Guards and has consistently promoted diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the nuclear and ballistic programmes through a negotiated solution.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn close co-ordination with EU Member States, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that EU citizens in the region can count on our full support.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"EuropeanEuropean Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says all parties should fully respect international law. Photograph: Simon Wohlfahrt\/AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

Iran\u2019s national security council promises \u2018crushing response\u2019<\/p>\n

Iran\u2019s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has promised a \u201ccrushing response\u201d following joint US-Israeli air strikes on Iran, noting the attacks occurred \u201conce again during negotiations\u201d with Washington.<\/p>\n

It said the \u201cenemy\u201d wrongly assumed the Iranian people would \u201csurrender to their petty demands through such cowardly actions\u201d.<\/p>\n

The SNSC said Iran\u2019s armed forces had already begun retaliatory measures and pledged to \u201ccontinuously keep the dear people informed\u201d.<\/p>\n

It warned that operations by the US and Israel could continue in Tehran and other cities, urging citizens, \u201cwhile maintaining calm\u201d, to travel to safer areas where possible to avoid danger.<\/p>\n

The council also reassured the public that the government had \u201cprepared all societal needs in advance\u201d and that there was \u201cno concern regarding the supply of essential goods\u201d, advising people to avoid crowded shopping centres.<\/p>\n

Schools and universities will remain closed until further notice, banks will continue services, and government offices will operate at 50 per cent capacity, the SNSC said, adding that further updates would be announced in due course.<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 3 hours ago<\/p>\n

Columnist Vincent Durac has some analysis<\/a> of how we got here. There\u2019ss also an explainer<\/a> of the key issues that divide the United States and Iran. <\/p>\n

\"AA plume of smoke rises following a reported explosion in Tehran on Saturday. Photograph: AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

\u2018The feeling is that we are in this for the long haul\u2019 \u2013 live reporting from Jerusalem <\/p>\n

Journalist Mark Weiss reports from Jerusalem: <\/p>\n

We are only three hours into the war and I\u2019ve already lost count of how many times the sirens have sounded here in Jerusalem \u2013 four or five so far \u2013 and before I can complete this sentence, another one is going off, piercing the tranquil Shabbat morning.<\/p>\n

We have relocated to the safe room \u2013 one of the bedrooms of the apartment \u2013 closing the metal door over the window and the metal door to the room, hoping that this protected space is indeed rocket-proof, if the worst case scenario plays out.<\/p>\n

The essentials to bring into the room are water, snacks, your mobile phone and a computer to follow events as they unfold (in the event there is no TV in the safe room). <\/p>\n

Residents with a safe room in the home are the lucky ones \u2013 others have to head to a public bomb shelter.<\/p>\n

It started with an alert at 8.10am local time on our phones from IDF Home Front Command, warning us that Israel was attacking Iran and that we should stay close to a safe room or bomb shelter. <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t really a surprise: people have been talking about this possibility for weeks, with endless speculation about when it would kick off and whether it would be just the Americans or a joint operation.<\/p>\n

Israel\u2019s airspace is closed until further notice. Schools are cancelled and only essential workplaces will be open in the coming days. Celebrations of the Jewish festival of Purim, planned for tomorrow, are cancelled.<\/p>\n

Some friends rushed from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv to collect their young adult children, who do not have bomb shelters close to their apartments, and bring them back to their home.<\/p>\n

The names of the communities under the threat of rocket fire comes up on the TV screen but at this juncture it\u2019s basically the entire country. So we sit tight and wait for the all-clear, the message that it\u2019s safe to leave the protected space. Until the next barrage.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, another siren is sounding. The feeling is that we are in this for the long haul. <\/p>\n

\"RocketRocket trail from Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system is seen over the skies of Jerusalem on Saturday. Photograph: Ahmad Gharabli\/AFP via Getty Images \"AA girl runs along a street as sirens sound in Jerusalem on Saturday. Photograph: John Wessels\/AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

The Israel Defense Forces said Iran has fired missiles towards Israel in response to the attack.<\/p>\n

In a statement, the IDF said: \u201cSirens were sounded in several areas across the country following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward the State of Israel.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Israeli air force is operating to intercept and strike threats, it added. <\/p>\n

\" People run to bomb shelters as red alert sirens are sounded in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photograph: Alexi J. Rosenfeld\/Getty Images \"HospitalHospital staff move patients to a parking lot shelter at the Ichilov medical center in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Saturday. Photograph: Kobi Wolf\/Bloomberg \"RocketRocket trail from Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system is seen over the skies of Jerusalem. Photograph: Ahmad Gharabli\/AFP via Getty Images \"AA person takes shelter as sirens sounded in Jerusalem on Saturday following the announcement that Israel had launched a ‘pre-emptive strike’ on Iran. Photograph: Ahmad Gharabli\/AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

Attack will create conditions for Iranians to \u2018take their destiny into their own hands\u2019, says Netanyahu<\/p>\n

Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu has said the joint US-Israeli attack on Iran \u201cwill create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe time has come for all sections of the people in Iran … to remove the yoke of tyranny from [the regime] and bring a free and peace-loving Iran,\u201d Netanyahu said in a statement.<\/p>\n

The attack follows a 12-day air war in June between Israel and Iran and repeated US-Israeli warnings that they would strike again if Iran pressed ahead with its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe state of Israel launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran to remove threats to the State of Israel,\u201d Israel\u2019s defence minister Israel Katz said.<\/p>\n

An Israeli defence official said the operation had been planned for months in co-ordination with Washington, and that the launch date was decided weeks ago.<\/p>\n

Explosions were heard in Tehran on Saturday, Iranian media reported, and sirens sounded across Israel around 8.15am local time in what the military said was a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of an incoming missile strike.<\/p>\n

The Israeli military announced the closure of schools and workplaces, with exceptions for essential sectors, and a ban on public airspace. <\/p>\n

Israel closed its airspace to civilian flights, and the airports authority asked the public not to go to any of the country\u2019s airports.<\/p>\n

\"IsraeliIsraeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu. Photograph: Abir Sultan\/European Pressphoto Agency <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

US president said on social media the US military had launched ‘major combat operations’ in Iran. Video: Reuters <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

\u2018Bombs will be dropping everywhere\u2019, says Trump <\/p>\n

In a video message published on social media, US president Donald Trump cited Washington\u2019s decades-long dispute with Iran, including the seizure of the 1979 US embassy in Tehran, when students held 52 Americans hostage for 444 days, as well as a range of other attacks the US has blamed on Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution. <\/p>\n

Trump said Iran had refused \u201cfor decades and decades\u201d every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions, and \u201cwe can\u2019t take it any more\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cInstead, they attempted to rebuild their nuclear programme and to continue developing long-range missiles that can now threaten our very good friends and allies in Europe, our troops stationed overseas and could soon reach the American homeland,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cJust imagine how emboldened this regime would be if they ever had \u2013 and actually were armed with \u2013 nuclear weapons as a means to deliver their message. For these reasons, the United States military is undertaking a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated. We\u2019re going to annihilate their navy. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to ensure that the region\u2019s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilise the region or the world and attack our forces, and no longer use their IEDs (improvised explosive devices) or roadside bombs, as they are sometimes called, to so gravely wound and kill thousands and thousands of people, including many Americans. <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we will ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. It\u2019s a very simple message. They will never have a nuclear weapon.\u201d<\/p>\n

Trump urged Iranians to stay sheltered because \u201cbombs will be dropping everywhere\u201d. <\/p>\n

He added: \u201cWhen we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"DonaldDonald Trump said the US has begun \u2018major combat operations\u2019. Photograph: Michael Gonzalez\/Associated Press <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 4 hours ago<\/p>\n

\"PeoplePeople watch as smoke rises on the skyline after an explosion in Tehran. Photograph: Associated Press \"AA plume of smoke rises following a reported explosion in Tehran on Saturday. Photograph: Atta Kenare\/AFP via Getty Images \"SmokeSmoke rises on the skyline after an explosion in Tehran. Photograph: Associated Press \"IraniansIranians try to clear a street amid heavy traffic in Tehran. Photograph: Sohrab\/AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

Attack \u2018against all international law\u2019, says Fianna F\u00e1il MEP <\/p>\n

Fianna F\u00e1il MEP Barry Andrews has said yet another US\/Israeli \u201cpre-emptive attack\u201d in the Middle East was \u201cagainst all international law\u201d. <\/p>\n

\u201cSuch strikes are only legal when there is a clear and imminent threat,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cThis looks again like regime change. Nobody supports this Iranian regime, but this is not the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Posting on X, Andrews said Trump \u201ctore up\u201d the nuclear deal with the international community in 2018 while Netanyahu has \u201cpushed for this bombing for decades\u201d. <\/p>\n

\u201cThey are responsible for the fallout,\u201d he added. \u201cBut we all could suffer the consequences, especially innocent Iranian civilians.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"FiannaFianna F\u00e1il MEP Barry Andrews said ‘we all could suffer the consequences, especially innocent Iranian civilians’. Photograph: Damien Storan\/PA Wire <\/p>\n

Sarah Burns – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

Further escalation in Iran risks another \u2018forever war in the Middle East\u2019, says Labour Party<\/p>\n

Labour\u2019s foreign affairs spokesman Duncan Smith has expressed his \u201cgrave concern\u201d following US and Israeli strikes on Iran overnight.<\/p>\n

\u201cUltimately these strikes originate from the Trump administrations pulling out of the treaty Obama negotiated with Iran on enrichment,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cEnsuring Iran cannot develop a nuclear weapons capability should only be done through negotiation, the strong application of the IAEA inspections, and the broader non-proliferation regime.<\/p>\n

\u201cInstead we have an Israeli government that due to the international community\u2019s inability to hold them accountable for their actions in Gaza, are acting with continuing impunity across the region.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe also have a US administration that continues to display authoritarian tendencies, with these strikes being no exception.\u201d<\/p>\n

Smith added that launching pre-emptive strikes ,despite reports that breakthroughs had occurred in negotiations on stockpiling, risked a \u201cnew long-term war in the Middle East\u201d.<\/p>\n

\u201cAn emergency meeting of EU leaders must be called and I urge the Irish Government to call on our European allies to ensure that Europe works to de-escalate this conflict,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n

\u201cPeace in the Middle East will never come on the battlefield, I urge the United States and Israel to stop their attacks and return to the negotiating table.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"Labour'sLabour’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Duncan Smith TD speaking to media at Leinster House.
\nPhotograph: Stephen Collins\/Collins Photos<\/p>\n

Carl O’Brien – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

US is planning \u2018several days\u2019 of attacks on Iran<\/p>\n

The US military is expected to carry out a multiday operation against Iran, a US official told Reuters.<\/p>\n

Israel\u2019s prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, has said the strikes under way are aimed at removing the \u201cexistential threat\u201d posed by Iran<\/p>\n

He said Iran must not be allowed to have nuclear weapons and the \u201coperation\u201d will create the conditions for the Iranian people to \u201ctake their fate into their own hands\u201d.<\/p>\n

Carl O’Brien – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

Trump calls for changes in Iran\u2019s leadership<\/p>\n

US president Trump said the US had launched a \u201cmassive and ongoing\u201d military campaign against Iran in an effort to decimate the country\u2019s military, eliminate its nuclear programme and bring about a change in government.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people,\u201d he said in an eight-minute-video posted on Truth Social. <\/p>\n

\u201cIts menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas and our allies throughout the world.\u201d<\/p>\n

Carl O’Brien – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

\"AA plume of smoke rises following explosions. Photograph: Atta Kenare\/AFP\/Getty Images <\/p>\n

Blast ring out across Tehran: latest images <\/p>\n

Blasts have been heard across multiple cities in Iran, including the capital Tehran and Isfahan.<\/p>\n

Long queues were reported at petrol stations with many people leaving the capital city, witnesses have told Reuters.<\/p>\n

Three large explosions were heard in central Tehran, according to the Iranian news agency Fars. The casualties and targets were not immediately clear.<\/p>\n

The first apparent strike happened near the offices of Iran\u2019s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.<\/p>\n

It was not clear whether 86-year-old Khamenei had been in his offices at the time. He has not been seen publicly in days as tensions with the US have grown.<\/p>\n

Iranian officials say several ministries in southern Tehran have been targeted.<\/p>\n

\"IranianIranian people run for cover in Tehran, Iran. Photograph: Sohrab \/ Middle East Images \/ AFP via Getty Images \"IraniansIranians try to clear a street amid heavy traffic in Tehran, Iran. Photograph: Sohrab \/ Middle East Images \/ AFP via Getty Images <\/p>\n

Carl O’Brien – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

Israeli military says barrage of missiles has been launched towards Israel<\/p>\n

At around 8.10am Irish time, the Israeli military said it had \u201cidentified missiles launched from Iran\u201d towards Israel, adding: \u201cDefensive systems are operating to intercept the threat.\u201d<\/p>\n

The US embassy in Jerusalem, meanwhile, has said all government employees and their family members have been directed to shelter in place until further notice.<\/p>\n

\u2757\ufe0fAn additional barrage of missiles was launched toward Israel.<\/p>\n

The Aerial Defense Array is currently identifying and intercepting threats.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Carl O’Brien – 5 hours ago<\/p>\n

The US and Israel attacked Iran on Saturday, pushing the Middle East into a renewed military confrontation.<\/p>\n

The strikes followed months of rising regional tensions amid threats by US president Donald Trump to attack if Iran pressed ahead with its \u200bnuclear and ballistic missile programmes.<\/p>\n

In a video shared on social media, Trump said the US military had launched \u201cmajor combat operations\u201d in Iran, saying the country had attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme.<\/p>\n

Israel\u2019s defence minister Israel Katz said Israel had launched a \u201cpre-emptive attack against Iran to remove \u2060threats to the state of Israel”.<\/p>\n

Blasts have been heard across multiple Iranian cities, including the capital Tehran and Isfahan in central Iran.<\/p>\n