Israel and Iran Engage in Direct Military Strikes, Escalating Regional Conflict

In mid-June 2025, a long-simmering shadow war between Israel and Iran erupted into direct military conflict, marking a dangerous new phase of regional instability. The escalation began on June 13 with a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, including the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant and sites in Esfahan and Natanz. The United States also conducted strikes on three nuclear facilities using bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles, with officials reporting "extreme damage". Iran retaliated by launching multiple barrages of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa. 

The attacks have resulted in significant casualties on both sides. A Washington-based human rights group reported that Israeli strikes in Iran have killed at least 950 people and wounded 3,450, including many civilians. In Israel, at least 24 people have been killed and over 1,000 wounded by Iranian attacks. The international community has responded with alarm. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting where IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warned that an attack on Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant could have catastrophic radiological consequences. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation, warning of the enormous consequences of a wider war. The conflict has also disrupted global commerce, with Iran threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz.

Source: AP News