Israel and Iran Exchange Strikes as Middle East War Hits Day Six; UK Evac Flight Delayed, US Sinks Iranian Ship
Tel Aviv/Jerusalem,
March 5, 2026Â
Escalating tensions gripped the Middle East on Thursday as Israel and Iran traded fresh attacks on the sixth day of open conflict, with explosions rocking multiple cities and international evacuations facing setbacks.
Israel launched strikes on targets in Lebanon and Iran, claiming hits on a missile launcher in Qom and an “aerial defense system” in Isfahan.
Blasts were also reported in Tehran, heightening fears of further retaliation.In response, Iranian attacks triggered air raid sirens across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Explosions lit up the skies as Israeli defenses intercepted incoming strikes, though the extent of damage remains unclear.
UK Evacuation Flight Hits Snag
A UK government-chartered flight from Oman, meant to evacuate British citizens from the volatile region, was delayed by a technical issue.
Originally scheduled for takeoff Wednesday night, it will now depart today.
US Torpedoes Iranian Ship Near Sri Lanka
In a dramatic escalation, the US sank the Iranian vessel Iris Dena near Sri Lanka with a submarine-fired torpedo.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed nearly 130 sailors were aboard, describing the ship as a “guest of India’s navy” struck “without warning.””The US will bitterly regret the precedent it has set,” Araghchi warned.
Sri Lankan authorities reported 180 people on board per documentation. So far, 32 have been rescued and 80 bodies recovered, leaving about 18 unaccounted for.
Explosions Rock Doha After Evacuation Order
Adding to regional jitters, explosions echoed through Doha’s skies in Qatar, per an AFP reporter. Qatar had ordered evacuations near the US Embassy as a precaution, underscoring the conflict’s widening ripple effects.
Lawmakers in the US voted down a measure that would have curbed President Donald Trump’s authority for further military action against Iran.As diplomacy falters, world leaders urge restraint, but the cycle of strikes shows no sign of breaking.
This story is developing. Last updated: 11:15 AM EAT, March 5, 2026.
