At least eight civilians were killed and 95 others injured after US-Israel strikes targeted a key location in Iran's Karaj, according to Iranian state media Press TV.
The attack reportedly hit the B1 bridge area, causing heavy casualties among people present nearby. Victims included local residents and travellers, with reports also indicating that families gathered outdoors for “Nature Day” were among those affected.
In the aftermath of the strikes, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the country remains firm in defending itself against the “aggression” by the United States and Israel.
Speaking during a phone call with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Pezeshkian said Iran had been engaged in indirect talks with the US when the strikes began. He also highlighted the damage caused to critical infrastructure, including industrial facilities, schools, and hospitals.
The Iranian President thanked Azerbaijan for its support, while Aliyev expressed concern over the impact of the conflict on regional stability and called for peace.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said measures taken by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz, including restricting passage of vessels linked to adversaries, are in line with international law and aimed at maintaining security in the strategic waterway.
Araghchi blamed ongoing tensions on what he called “aggression” by the US and Israel, but added that Iran continues to allow safe passage for neutral ships through coordination with authorities.
In a separate conversation, Philippines Foreign Minister Maria Teresa Lazaro expressed condolences over the loss of lives and called for an immediate end to the conflict.
The strikes come as the conflict enters its second month, with Iranian officials claiming that over 2,000 people, including women and children, have been killed across the country since the escalation began.