The Associated Press has begun referring to the escalating conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel as the 'Iran war,' citing the scope and intensity of the fighting. The decision reflects sustained attacks and counterattacks, including strikes by the United States and Israel on key Iranian military targets and leadership, and Iran’s missile and drone responses against Israel and Gulf Arab states hosting American forces.

Although none of the countries has formally declared war, the scale of hostilities meets the broad definition of war as open armed conflict between nations. Editors concluded that the destruction, casualties and stated intentions of leaders, including calls for the overthrow of Iran’s government, justify describing the situation as a war.

The news organization said it weighs factors such as casualties, intensity, and the parties’ own characterizations when deciding to use the term. Editors will continue monitoring developments, but say the current level of fighting constitutes war regardless of how long it lasts.