Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated sharply overnight on Monday, with military
strikes hitting residential areas and causing civilian casualties. Global leaders expressed
concern over the conflict potential to engulf the wider Middle East and called for de-
escalation.
Over the weekend, Iran launched missile attacks on Israel in retaliation for Friday
preemptive Israeli strikes on Iran nuclear and military sites. The Iranian attacks killed 10
people, including children, bringing the Israeli death toll to 13 with 380 wounded. In
response, Israeli strikes have killed at least 230 people in Iran since Friday, according to
Iran health ministry. Among the dead is Mohammad Kazem, the intelligence chief of Irans
Revolutionary Guards.
The violence has derailed diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington aimed at
resolving Iran’s nuclear issue. Iran canceled a scheduled round of talks in Oman, accusing
Israel of trying to sabotage diplomacy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned
the attacks, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu insisted the focus should be on
preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump appeal for both nations to make a deal Iran
refused to negotiate under attack, and Israel rejected calls to de-escalate.
Tags: Israel-Iran war, Nuclear site attack on Iran, Israel war