Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically on Wednesday as Israel intensified strikes on Iranian missile sites and weapons factories.

Iran responded with dozens of ballistic missiles and drone attacks across the Gulf, including a strike on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia.

According to officials, nearly 800 people have been killed in Iran over four days of fighting.

Lebanon has reported 50 deaths, including seven children, following Israeli retaliatory strikes on Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed group.

Israel has reported 11 deaths on its side, with the Pentagon confirming six US service members were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait.

On Wednesday, the Israeli military carried out a series of air strikes across Tehran, targeting buildings linked to Iran’s Basij force and internal security command.

Both organisations have previously been involved in suppressing protests, including the deadly January crackdown that left thousands dead and tens of thousands detained.

Israel and the US have stated that part of their goal is to pressure Iran’s leadership by striking forces associated with domestic repression.

While Israel has claimed that most incoming missiles have been intercepted, casualties continue to rise across the region.

Kuwait reported an additional death of an 11-year-old girl from shrapnel, and three fatalities were confirmed in the United Arab Emirates, with one in Bahrain.

The Red Crescent Society reports that US-Israeli strikes have killed at least 787 people in Iran.