Iran has launched a missile attack on Israel, killing at least 10 people, in response to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian oil sites and nuclear facilities. The attacks have sparked widespread concern and condemnation from world leaders, who are urging restraint and diplomacy to prevent further escalation.
The Israeli military says it targeted sites “related to the Iranian regime’s nuclear weapons project” in its airstrikes on Friday. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reaffirmed the country’s stance on nuclear weapons, saying that it is “our firm conviction not to possess a nuclear weapon”. However, he added that Iran has the right to possess a nuclear program for peaceful purposes.
The Iranian attacks on Israel have caused significant damage and casualties. A residential building in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv, was hit, killing at least six people and injuring nearly 200. The Israeli army’s Home Front Command estimates it will take at least 24 hours to finish scouring the scene for any survivors.
The conflict between Israel and Iran has sparked fears of a wider conflagration. World leaders are stressing the need for restraint and diplomacy to prevent further escalation. US President Donald Trump’s base is divided on the issue, with some supporters concerned that he is acting no differently than his predecessors in allowing Israel to take aggressive action against Iran.
The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging attacks and rhetoric. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that if Israeli attacks stop, “our responses will also stop”. However, there has been no immediate reaction from Israel, which has continued with strikes on Sunday across Iran.
The international community is working to evacuate citizens from the region and to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict. The Israeli Airports Authority has announced that Ben Gurion International Airport will remain closed to landings and takeoffs for a third day, and that it is working with the country’s airlines to bring back Israelis who are stranded abroad.