The conflict between Iran and Israel continues to intensify, with both sides exchanging blows. Here are the key developments ¹:
- *Israeli Strikes*: Israel has confirmed conducting extensive airstrikes on multiple targets in Tehran, including the Iranian Ministry of Defense headquarters and nuclear facilities. According to reports, Israel hit approximately 80 targets in Tehran overnight.
- *Iranian Retaliation*: Iran has launched ballistic missiles at Israel, with air raid sirens sounding across central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The Israeli military detected missile launches originating from Iran.
- *Casualties and Damage*: The Iranian Health Ministry reported 224 deaths and 1,277 hospitalizations due to Israeli strikes. In Israel, at least 10 people have been killed and over 100 injured in Iranian missile and drone strikes.
- *International Response*: US President Donald Trump has warned of massive retaliation if America is targeted and expressed hope for a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. He also claimed that the US had nothing to do with the attack on Iran. France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized that diplomacy is the best way to prevent an escalation in the conflict.
*Global Reactions*
- *Pakistan's Support for Iran*: Pakistan has voiced strong support for Iran, condemning Israeli airstrikes on Tehran and urging unity among Muslim nations against what it describes as "Israeli aggression".
- *India's Stance*: The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued an advisory for nationals in Israel, closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to ensure their safety.
*Key Quotes*
- *Ayatollah Ali Khamenei*: Warned the US against attacks, stating that Israel would face "severe punishment" for its actions against Tehran. He also mentioned that Iran would respond with "more decisive and severe" action if Israel continues its aggression.
- *Benjamin Netanyahu*: Claimed that Israel's strikes aimed to dismantle Iran's nuclear capabilities and asserted that regime change in Iran could be a result of Israel's military attacks.
- *Donald Trump*: Expressed hope for a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, stating that "sometimes they have to fight it out". He also claimed that he could broker peace between Israel and Iran soon.
