Tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate, with both countries exchanging deadly strikes. Blasts have rocked Tehran, while air raid sirens have gone off in Tel Aviv as Iran prepares for what it calls the largest and most intense missile attack in history on Israeli soil. This development comes after a strike on Iranian state television, which was hit during a live broadcast.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a bold statement, saying that killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would not escalate hostilities but would “end the conflict”. Netanyahu has also vowed to strike “every target of the ayatollah regime” in Iran, adding that Israeli strikes had dealt a “real blow” to Tehran’s nuclear programme. He emphasized that Israel is “on the path to victory” and is working to eliminate the nuclear and missile threats from Iran.
US President Donald Trump has issued a threat on social media, ordering all residents of Tehran to flee and emphasizing that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Trump stated that Iran is not winning the war and should re-enter negotiations “before it’s too late”. He also announced that he would be exiting the G7 Summit being held in Canada early due to the prevailing tension in the Middle East.
The death toll from Israel’s deadly strikes on Iran has risen to over 220, including 70 women and children. In contrast, more than 20 people have been killed in Iranian attacks on Israel. The conflict has far-reaching consequences, with oil prices rising further as the Israel-Iran conflict extends into its fourth day. Brent crude futures rose 64 cents, or 0.86%, to $74.87 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 76 cents, or 1.04%, to $73.74.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that the attacks on Israel will end once Israel halts its military campaign against the Islamic Republic. Araghchi emphasized that Iran is defending itself and will continue to do so until the aggression stops. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that Tehran’s responses will be “more decisive and severe” if Israel continues its campaign.
The international community is calling for restraint, warning that the region teeters on the brink of a broader war. France blamed Iran for escalating tensions, while Pakistan condemned the Israeli attacks. The UN nuclear watchdog said it’s assessing the full extent of damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities.