Trump announces US-Israel strikes on Iran; experts warn conflict could widen

The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran on Saturday, escalating tensions in the Middle East as President Donald Trump announced the start of what he called a major military operation. The strikes followed months of military buildup and came after multiple rounds of nuclear talks failed to produce an agreement, according to reporting cited on-air. Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone attacks, setting off alerts in Israel and raising concerns the conflict could expand beyond a single day of fighting. Iran has reported casualties from the strikes, including deaths at a girls school, while US and Israeli officials have not confirmed those claims. The situation is developing, with officials and analysts warning of broader regional and economic impacts, including risks to shipping lanes and energy markets.