Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically over the weekend as Israel launched a massive aerial offensive on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, top scientists, and senior military figures. The strike, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed had set back Iran’s nuclear programme by years, triggered a fierce response from Tehran, fueling fears of a broader regional conflict.
On Friday, Israel carried out over 150 strikes across Iran, including attacks on nuclear sites in Natanz and Isfahan, as well as residential areas. Iran’s state media reported that 78 people were killed on the first day, with another 60, including 20 children, killed on Saturday when a 14-storey apartment building in Tehran was hit. Israel claimed it had eliminated senior military leaders and nine top nuclear scientists.
Netanyahu declared that the operation was far from over. “What they have felt so far is nothing compared with what they will be handed in the coming days,” he warned, rejecting calls for restraint. Defence Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, threatening to “burn Tehran” if Iranian missile attacks continued.
Iran retaliated with a barrage of over 200 ballistic missiles and drones, some of which were intercepted with U.S. assistance. In Israel, three people died and dozens were injured, including in Rishon LeZion where emergency workers rescued a baby from a damaged home. Despite the violence, parts of Tel Aviv remained active, with residents returning to beaches on Saturday.
Iran threatened to target regional bases aiding Israel and warned it may close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. Global oil prices surged by 7% in response.
While Iran maintains its nuclear programme is peaceful, the International Atomic Energy Agency recently cited Tehran for violating the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Talks between Iran and the U.S. scheduled for Sunday were suspended, with Iranian officials calling ongoing negotiations unjustifiable during Israel’s “barbaric” assault.
As both sides brace for further escalation, the international community watches with growing alarm at the potential for a wider, destabilizing war across the region.
