Escalation in Conflict: Israel and Iran Exchange Missile Strikes
Israel and Iran intensify their conflict with missile strikes and airstrikes, raising concerns of a broader regional conflict.
TEL AVIV: On Saturday, June 14, Israel and Iran engaged in a fierce exchange of missiles and airstrikes, marking a significant escalation in their conflict. This followed Israel's extensive air offensive launched the previous day, targeting Iranian nuclear sites, commanders, and scientists. Israel's stated objective is to prevent Iran from developing an atomic weapon.
In Tehran, Iranian state TV reported that approximately 60 people, including 20 children, were killed in an attack on a housing complex. Additional strikes were reported across the country, with Israel claiming to have targeted over 150 sites.
In Israel, air raid sirens alerted residents to seek shelter as missiles traversed the sky, intercepted by defense systems. At least three people were killed in the overnight attacks. An Israeli official stated that Iran had fired around 200 ballistic missiles in four waves.
US President Donald Trump praised Israel's actions and warned of severe consequences unless Iran swiftly agrees to curb its nuclear program as demanded by the US. However, with Israel indicating that its operation could persist for weeks and urging Iranians to rebel against their leadership, fears of a regional conflict involving external powers and global economic repercussions have intensified.
The United States, Israel's primary ally, assisted in intercepting Iranian missiles, according to two US officials. Despite this, Iranian missiles still struck residential areas in Israel, prompting Defence Minister Israel Katz to issue a stern warning to Iran's leadership.
"If (Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali) Khamenei continues to target the Israeli home front with missiles, Tehran will face severe consequences," Katz stated.