Morning update

Good morning Middle East Eye readers,

A sharp escalation across the Middle East is driving rising casualties, expanding strikes and growing regional instability, with major developments spanning Iran, Israel, Lebanon and Gulf states overnight. Rescue operations, infrastructure hits and civilian tolls continue to shape the conflict.

Here are the latest updates as major developments continue to unfold rapidly: 

US rescue operation: The second crew member of a downed F-15E fighter jet has been rescued, with President Donald Trump saying the officer is injured but “will be fine.”

Iran strikes toll rises: At least nine people were killed and eight wounded in US strikes in Iran’s Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province.

Major Israeli strikes: Israel said it hit more than 120 Iranian air defence and missile systems in the past 24 hours.

Petrochemical hub hit: A strike on a key petrochemical site in southwestern Iran killed five people and wounded around 170, according to Iranian media.

US aircraft destroyed: Reports say US forces destroyed two malfunctioning transport aircraft during the Iran rescue mission to prevent capture.

Gulf infrastructure targeted: Drone attacks damaged power and water plants in Kuwait, while Bahrain said a fire at a Bapco facility after an Iranian strike has been extinguished.

UAE 'attack': Fires broke out at Abu Dhabi’s Borouge petrochemical plant after debris from an interception fell on the site, forcing a suspension of operations.

Civilian toll in Israel: Israel’s Health Ministry said 108 people were hospitalised with war-related injuries in the past 24 hours.

Iran warning: An Iranian official warned of a “big surprise” for the US and Israel as tensions escalate.

Global alarm: Former IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei warned the region could become a “ball of fire” and urged international action to stop further escalation