Israel has carried out bombardments in Beirut and Tehran as the United States signalled that its strikes on Iran are set to surge dramatically, intensifying tensions across the region.

Amid the escalating conflict, the United Kingdom has begun evacuating its citizens from the Middle East. A government flight departed from Stansted Airport carrying passengers who had been waiting in Muscat, Oman, where many described feelings of anxiety and stress as they awaited departure.

The United Kingdom government said it is considering organising additional charter flights from Oman in the coming days. Commercial flights are also operating from the United Arab Emirates to the United Kingdom as efforts continue to assist those seeking to leave the region.