Air strikes: what they mean and how to follow them

Air strikes change lives fast. They destroy buildings, cut power, and force people to flee. If you follow news about conflicts, you need straight facts and clear safety steps — not rumors. This page gathers our reporting, explains what to watch for, and gives simple steps to verify claims and protect yourself or loved ones.

How we cover air strikes

We track official statements, on-the-ground reports, NGO updates, and open-source evidence like videos and satellite images. When possible, we list location details, timestamps, and local sources so you can judge reliability. Expect updates as new info comes in — initial reports often change.

When a story involves a named location — for example, unrest in eastern DR Congo or clashes in other hotspots — we try to confirm details from at least two independent sources before we say casualty numbers or damage estimates. If we can’t verify, we clearly label it as unconfirmed.

How to read reports and verify them yourself

See a video or photo online? Check these fast: reverse image search, look for timestamps or metadata, compare landmarks with maps, and cross-check with reputable outlets or humanitarian groups like the ICRC or UN OCHA. If only one account exists and it looks emotional, treat it cautiously.

Watch for repeated claims with identical wording — that can mean a single source is being copied around. Also check language: local news or local-language posts often show details that international outlets miss. But remember: a local post can still be wrong, so look for confirmation.

Casualty numbers and blame often shift. Governments, armed groups, and witnesses may give very different figures. We show who said what and when, so you can see the timeline.

Want live updates? Follow official emergency services, credible local journalists, and major wire agencies. Avoid resharing unverified images. Misinformation spreads fast and can put people at risk.

If you’re near an affected area: follow local authority instructions, move to a safe interior room away from windows, and keep your phone charged. If you can, document what you see safely — but prioritize getting out of danger over collecting evidence.

Air strikes bring legal and humanitarian questions: are civilians being protected, are hospitals being respected, and is aid getting through? We report on these issues and link to the groups working on the ground.

Follow this tag for updates from across the continent. If you have verified information or firsthand reports, contact our newsroom — but only share what you can confirm and never put yourself or others in danger to get a story.