WASHINGTON –
Israel launched overnight strikes targeting Iranian-backed Hezbollah positions in Beirut while also hitting Iranian regime infrastructure in Tehran, according to officials.
The escalation comes as tensions between Israel and Iran continue to intensify across the region.
President Donald Trump said the United States and Israel are working together in the conflict.
“The United States military, together with our Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy far ahead of schedule,” Trump said.
Trump calls for “unconditional surrender”
Trump said there will be no agreement with Iran unless the country agrees to unconditional surrender.
In phone interviews with news organizations, Trump said he wants Iran’s current leadership structure removed.
He also urged Iranian diplomats around the world to help bring about leadership change.
“The United States will ensure that whoever leads the country next in Iran will not threaten America or its neighbors, Israel, anybody,” Trump said.
Leadership uncertainty in Iran
In Iran, hardline supporters gathered during Friday prayers to mourn the death of the country’s Supreme Leader.
Iran’s state news agency reported that preparations are underway to select a successor.
Regional experts say the Ayatollah’s son has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the role.
Analysts say choosing the son could signal that the Islamic Republic is trying to maintain continuity in leadership.
“If he is chosen as his father’s successor, it would indicate that the Islamic Republic is trying to have continuity and ensure that the Revolutionary Guards and civil-military relations remain the same,” one regional expert said.
Warning to Iranian forces
Trump also issued a warning to members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
He said they could receive immunity if they lay down their arms but would face certain death if they continue fighting.
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CBS News is providing live updates as the situation continues to develop.