The conflict between Iran and Israel has intensified, entering its fourth consecutive day on Monday with continuous missile exchanges and mounting global concern. Early Sunday, Israel expanded its surprise offensive, targeting key Iranian installations including the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Tehran and sites allegedly linked to Iran’s nuclear weapons project.
Key Developments So Far:
Missile Strikes and Casualties
- In Haifa, Israeli emergency services reported around 30 injuries after Iranian missile strikes. Fires broke out at a local power plant following the attack.
- A residential building in Petah Tikva, near Tel Aviv, was hit by Iranian missiles, causing extensive structural damage. Casualty figures are yet to be confirmed.
- Explosions have been heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, with air defence sirens activated across several Israeli cities.
Iran’s Retaliation and Claims
- Iran claims that 224 people have been killed in Israeli strikes since Friday.
- Iranian missiles have struck Tel Aviv and Haifa, destroying homes and triggering emergency responses.
- Iran has refused mediation efforts, telling Qatar and Oman that it will not enter ceasefire talks while under attack.
- Iran’s Tasnim news agency confirmed that the Revolutionary Guards Chief and two generals were killed in Israeli strikes.
- Iran accused Israel of deliberately targeting a foreign ministry building in Tehran, injuring several civilians.
Israel’s Counterattacks
- The Israeli military confirmed fresh strikes on surface-to-surface missile sites in western Iran.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel has “destroyed” the Natanz nuclear facility and killed Iran’s intelligence chief.
- Netanyahu also alleged that Iran had plotted to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump, branding him as “enemy number one” to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Global and U.S. Reaction
- CNN reported that Trump rejected an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the latest escalation.
- The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert, warning American citizens in Iraq of possible violence.
- Trump has reiterated U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defence.
Public Safety Measures in Israel
- Israel extended public safety guidelines through June 17, including school closures.
- The Homefront Command has deployed Search and Rescue teams to multiple impact sites.
Stay tuned for more LIVE updates on the Iran-Israel conflict.
Disclaimer: This is a developing story. All information is based on the latest verified reports from Reuters, AP, AFP, and official statements.