After the United States and Israel launched an attack on Iran Saturday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said it is “closely monitoring” the strikes in the region, which is home to thousands of its members.
“The safety and well-being of people are always a priority in a situation of this kind,” the church said in a statement. “We are in regular contact with church leaders responsible for the students, faculty and humanitarian service volunteers serving throughout the Middle East, all of whom are accounted for and safe at this time.”
The attacks unfolded across Iran early Saturday, with explosions reported in Tehran and other cities including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah.
In turn, Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel and targeted multiple U.S. military bases in the region, according to The New York Times.
President Donald Trump framed the operation as an opportunity for a change of government in Tehran and urged Iranians to “take over your government.”
The church said it expresses “profound concern and heartfelt compassion for all those living in harm’s way” and joins families worldwide in prayer for loved ones in the region.