Missiles Fly as Iran and Israel Exchange Attacks

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Iran and Israel have launched a series of attacks, igniting fears of a wider conflict. The strikes began early Saturday, with missiles targeting critical infrastructure and raising the stakes in a long-simmering dispute.

Recent Attacks and Escalation

Early on Saturday, Iran and Israel exchanged fresh attacks, just a day following Tehran’s declaration that it would not negotiate over its nuclear program while under threat. Iran’s Fars news agency indicated that Israel targeted the Isfahan nuclear facility. Simultaneously, Israeli military forces claimed to have attacked missile storage and launch sites in Iran.

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Air raid sirens wailed across central Israel, including Tel Aviv, and the occupied West Bank. Emergency services reported a fire on the roof of a residential building, possibly caused by missile debris. President Donald Trump stated he would decide within two weeks whether the United States should enter the conflict on Israel’s side.

“We can’t let that happen.”

—Donald Trump

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the conflict has seen a significant surge in military spending. Both sides have been building up their forces, with Iran’s military expenditure estimated to have increased by 15% in the last year (Council on Foreign Relations).

Nuclear Program Disputes

The current hostilities began on June 13 when Israel initiated attacks on Iran, alleging that its long-standing adversary was on the verge of developing nuclear weapons. Iran, in response, launched missile and drone strikes against Israel. Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but neither confirms nor denies this.

The situation remains tense, with diplomatic efforts proving largely unsuccessful. The potential for the conflict to widen is a growing concern, as both sides appear committed to their positions.