Iran and Israel Exchange Missile Strikes Amid Escalating Tensions
Following an overnight exchange of hypersonic missiles, hostilities continue between Iran and Israel, with the specter of wider regional conflict looming. Both sides have issued warnings and threats, even as international actors scramble for a diplomatic solution.
Missiles and Warnings
Early Wednesday, Iran launched hypersonic missiles at Israel, escalating the conflict between the two nations. This occurred just hours after Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.” Israeli warplanes subsequently targeted Tehran, striking military sites.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps stated their Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles “repeatedly shaking the shelters” in Tel Aviv. Hypersonic missiles, capable of maneuvering mid-flight at over five times the speed of sound, pose significant challenges for tracking and interception.
“The 11th wave of the proud Operation Honest Promise 3 using Fattah-1 missiles” was carried out,”
—Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
Iran also deployed a “swarm of drones” towards Israel, with two of them being intercepted by the Israeli army over the Dead Sea. According to a 2024 report, the cost of intercepting a single missile can be significantly higher than the cost of the missile itself, highlighting the economic strain of these conflicts. (Council on Foreign Relations).
International Response and US Involvement
World powers are seeking a diplomatic solution to avoid a wider war in the region. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty urged for a diplomatic resolution during separate calls with his Iranian counterpart and US envoy Steve Witkoff.
Trump’s early exit from the G7 summit fueled speculation about possible US intervention. Back in Washington, Trump declared Iran’s need for “unconditional surrender” and boasted about the capability of the US to target Iran’s supreme leader.
Trump also ordered the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier and several US military aircraft to the region. However, US officials have said no decision has been made about direct intervention. The US is deploying additional fighter aircraft to the Middle East.
British leader Keir Starmer, at the G7 summit, stated there was no indication the US was about to enter the conflict. The Israeli military reported two barrages of Iranian missiles fired towards Israel early Wednesday. Explosions were reported over Tel Aviv.
Future Outlook
Both sides are signaling a willingness to strike, but international pressure for de-escalation is mounting. The coming days will likely determine if diplomacy can prevail or if the conflict spirals further, drawing in other regional powers.