Iranian military bases have been targeted in a wave of US strikes overnight, with explosions heard across the country shortly after neighbouring Gulf states began to report attacks.

The United States has confirmed it launched the military operation against Iran in response to "credible intelligence" of an imminent attack by Iranian forces, according to officials.

US Strikes Iran: Live Updates

The US Department of Defense said the strikes were carried out by F-15 fighter jets and B-52 bombers, and were aimed at disrupting Iran's " ability to conduct further attacks" on regional targets.

The operation was confirmed by a senior Iranian military official, who told the BBC that "multiple explosions" had been heard at several military bases across Iran overnight.

"The situation is under control, but we are still assessing the extent of the damage," the official said.

The strikes come as tensions between the US and Iran have been escalating in recent weeks, with both sides trading threats and rhetoric.

In a statement, US President Joe Biden said "we will not tolerate any further attacks on our interests or those of our allies" in the region.

The UK has also condemned the Iranian government's actions, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak saying "we stand with our allies in condemning the use of force and supporting regional stability".

The strikes are the latest escalation in a long-standing conflict between the US and Iran, which has seen numerous military interventions and diplomatic efforts in recent years.

The US has imposed economic sanctions on Iran in response to its nuclear program, while Iran has accused the US of "meddling" in its internal affairs.