Israel-Iran Conflict LIVE: Explosions Rock Jerusalem Amid Escalating Military Strikes, U.S. Involvement Sparks Global Alarm

Jerusalem/Tehran, June 23, 2025 — Tensions between Israel and Iran intensified sharply as fresh missile barrages and retaliatory airstrikes marked the 11th day of conflict, with loud blasts heard across Jerusalem shortly after Israeli military warnings of incoming Iranian missiles. The situation escalated further following the United States’ direct military intervention targeting key Iranian nuclear facilities.

Missile Strikes Shake Israel, Iran Vows Retaliation

The Israeli army confirmed multiple air raid sirens sounded across the country after missile launches from Iran were detected early Monday. Explosions were reported in Jerusalem, though initial reports indicate no casualties. Israel said its forces struck surface-to-surface missile launch sites in Iran’s western Kermanshah province, with 15 fighter jets involved in the operation.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military acknowledged one of its drones was downed over Iran during an operation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared Israel was nearing its goal of neutralizing Iran’s nuclear and missile threats.

U.S. Launches Bunker-Buster Bomb Attacks on Iranian Nuclear Sites

In a significant development, American B2 bombers carried out strikes using 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities over the weekend. U.S. President Donald Trump claimed the attacks had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities, although officials stated it was too early to assess the full impact.

Iran responded with sharp condemnation, accusing the U.S. of crossing a “red line” and vowed a proportionate military response. “Mr. Trump, the gambler, you may start this war, but we will be the ones to end it,” said Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military command.

Casualties and Regional Fallout

According to a human rights organization, Israeli strikes in Iran have so far killed at least 950 people and wounded over 3,450, figures that challenge Tehran’s official numbers.

Meanwhile, Iran’s judiciary executed Mohammad Amin Mahdavi Shayesteh, accusing him of espionage for Mossad, amid fears of an intensifying crackdown.

Global Reactions: Warnings, Condemnations, and Calls for Dialogue

The escalating violence has triggered strong international responses:

• United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres warned the strikes could lead to a “perilous turn” in the region. IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi emphasized the urgent need for renewed diplomacy to prevent “unthinkable levels” of violence.
  
• European Union: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said any Iranian move to close the Strait of Hormuz would be “extremely dangerous.”
  
• Indonesia, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka called for de-escalation and renewed negotiations.
  
• North Korea condemned the U.S. strikes, labelling them a violation of Iran’s sovereignty.
  
• Hezbollah denounced the U.S. but did not signal military involvement.
  

Market and Economic Repercussions

The fallout extended into global markets:

• Oil Prices: Surged to a five-month high amid fears of disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route.
  
• Stock Markets: Asian indices tumbled, with Australia’s ASX hitting a three-week low. India’s Sensex and Nifty also saw sharp early trading declines.
  

Diplomatic Backdrop and U.S.-Israel Relations

The conflict derailed scheduled diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran, with Trump demanding an “unconditional surrender” from Tehran. The strikes have reignited discussions on the U.S.-Israel “special relationship,” underpinned by decades of strategic, political, and military cooperation.

Iran Considers Suspending IAEA Cooperation

Iran’s parliament is weighing a bill to suspend cooperation with the IAEA unless it receives assurances of impartial conduct. Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stated that Tehran does not seek nuclear weapons but will act if pressured.

Airlines Suspend Flights, Global Mobility Affected

Commercial airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Air France-KLM, British Airways, and American Airlines, suspended Middle East operations, stranding thousands and rerouting flights to avoid conflict zones.

Upcoming Developments

• Iran-Russia Talks: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the crisis.
  
• Pakistan’s NSC Meeting: Islamabad will convene a National Security Committee session in response to the strikes, having condemned the U.S. action.
  

NATO Summit: Leaders will gather in The Hague amid fears the Middle East conflict may overshadow discussions on Ukraine and global defense.