Following combat attacks on Iran by the United States, Donald Trump, President of the United States, confirmed more would follow.
He said in a press briefing on Saturday, “when we are finished, taking over your government, it will be yours to take. This is probably your only chance for generations.”
There are reports several Iranian leaders were killed, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but this is yet to be confirmed by authorities.
Iran retaliated with attacks to neighbouring Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Clashes between Iraqi police and protesters continues.
There were protests outside the White House in Washington, to stop the war against Iran.
The Iraqi military also took to social media to announce it would target Israel and United States bases.
China also announced it would stand with Iran.
Among various organisations distressed by current events, is the African Union (AU).
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, strongly condemned the missile and drone attacks carried out by Iran against the five Middle Eastern countries.
“These actions constitute a clear violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity and risk further destabilizing the Middle East at a time when restraint is urgently required. He said that African Union Commission stands in full solidarity with the governments and peoples of the affected states.”
He also called for an immediate de-escalation, maximum restraint by all parties, and a swift return to dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable path toward sustainable peace and regional stability.
Several airports were shut down in Bahrain and Dubai.
Analysts have expressed concern about logistics in affected areas and the impact this will have on prices, and economies of the world.