Israel, US intensify strikes on Iran as Kurdish rebels move in

Birds fly against the backdrop of smoke rising after a strike on the Iranian capital of Tehran on March 5, 2026. Israel pounded Tehran with fresh strikes and Iran targeted Kurdish guerilla groups in Iraq on March 5 as a spiralling war in the Middle East engulfed the entire region. (Photo by ATTA KENARE / AFP)

By Favour Ulebor & agency reports

Israel and the United States have intensified airstrikes across Iran for a sixth consecutive day, targeting hospitals, schools, homes, stadiums, and cultural sites, causing widespread destruction and civilian casualties.

Tehran and other cities have been hit heavily, with the Azadi Stadium, Tehran Grand Bazaar, and the Golestan Palace among the affected locations.

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 33 civilian sites have been directly struck, while the Iranian Red Crescent said more than 3,600 sites nationwide have suffered damage, including over 3,000 homes, 528 commercial centres, 13 medical facilities, and nine Red Crescent centres. Hospitals such as Khatam, Gandhi, and Valiasr Burn Hospital were severely damaged, leaving some inoperable and injuring patients.

The World Health Organization confirmed 13 attacks on healthcare facilities, killing four health workers and injuring 25.

The death toll from the strikes has risen to at least 1,230 since Saturday, with Israel expanding attacks to Lebanon.

A US submarine also torpedoed the Iranian frigate Iris Dena near Sri Lanka, leaving 87 dead and 32 rescued.

Amid the bombardment, Kurdish fighters have begun crossing from Iraq into western Iran in what the Iranian government described as a CIA-backed insurgency.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, called for stronger border security.

Reports indicate the US is in talks with Kurdish leaders to support attacks aimed at toppling the Iranian government, following President Donald Trump’s earlier call for popular uprisings.

Despite days of bombing, no widespread civilian uprising has occurred, prompting the US to focus on the Kurdish minority in Iran’s western provinces.