Amid soaring tensions in the Middle East, United States President Donald Trump has reportedly encouraged Iraqi Kurdish forces to consider carrying out attacks against Iran. Simultaneously, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced plans to deploy new military initiatives and modern weaponry to counter what it describes as aggression from Israel and the United States.
Recent footage has emerged showing US military personnel actively training members of Kurdish militias, signalling a deepening collaboration between Washington and regional non-state actors.
On Friday, Israel’s military reported conducting large-scale strikes on several of Tehran’s strategic facilities. In response, Iran initiated countermeasures in various Gulf cities, signalling a rapid escalation of hostilities.
According to authorities in Qatar, Iran launched a drone attack under the cover of night on Al Udeid Air Base, one of the United States’ largest military hubs in the region. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported from this incident.
At the ‘Raisina Dialogue’ conference in Delhi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh asserted, “This is a battle for Iran’s very survival. Wherever US attacks originate, Tehran is compelled to respond decisively.”
Meanwhile, President Trump commented, “If Iraqi Kurdish forces wish to cross into Iran and strike, I support it. It could be highly effective.” On the US role in Iranian leadership transitions, he added, “Following the recent airstrike that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the United States should have a say in the selection of the next leader.”
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth clarified Washington’s objectives: “Our aim is not to expand Iran’s military footprint, but to dismantle its ballistic missile capabilities and prevent nuclear armament.”
Regional actors are also responding. The Iranian-aligned Hezbollah has warned Israeli citizens to evacuate towns within five kilometres of the border, reflecting fears of escalation.
The human cost of the conflict has been severe. Over the past week, the Iranian Red Crescent reports at least 1,230 deaths, including 175 students and staff killed in a single school attack. In Lebanon, 77 fatalities have been confirmed by the Ministry of Health.
Casualties and Key Incidents
| Country / Agency | Fatalities | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Iran (Red Crescent) | 1,230 | Includes 175 students and school staff |
| Lebanon (Ministry of Health) | 77 | Conflicts near border areas |
| Qatar | 0 | Drone strike on Al Udeid Air Base, no casualties reported |
This intensifying conflict underscores the increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, posing fresh diplomatic and security challenges for the international community.