On Feb 28, the United Nations Security Council will meet at 4 p.m. Eastern after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, with Britain chairing the session.

Initial strikes appeared to target Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s home, and Tehran responded by launching missiles at Israel with explosions reported in United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar.

Russia and China requested the session, saying `in connection with the unprovoked act of armed aggression by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran`, while France, Bahrain and Colombia also called for the emergency meeting.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the use of force by the United States, Israel, and Iran, saying it undermines international peace and security; he is expected to brief the Security Council today.

British officials said British forces and planes are active in regional defensive operations, and French President Emmanuel Macron said France stands ready to deploy resources and urged Iran to negotiate in good faith.