#IsraelIranConflict Recent Escalation (June 2025):

* Israeli Strikes on Iran: On June 13, 2025, Israel launched widespread airstrikes on multiple targets across Iran, including nuclear and military sites, particularly in Tehran and Isfahan. Reports indicate that these strikes killed several senior Iranian military commanders, including General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Revolutionary Guard's missile program, and nuclear scientists. Israel declared these "preemptive" strikes as part of "Operation Rising Lion," aiming to roll back the "Iranian threat."

* Iranian Retaliation: In response, Iran confirmed its intention to "strongly take action" and "give a severe, wise and strong answer" to Israel. Iran has already launched over 100 drones towards Israel, though Israel claims to have intercepted most of them outside its airspace. Iran also imposed temporary internet restrictions.

* International Reactions: The international community has reacted with calls for de-escalation. The UN Secretary-General urged "maximum restraint," and the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that nuclear facilities "must never be attacked." The United States, while reiterating its red line that "Iran simply cannot have a nuclear bomb," has stated it was not involved in the strikes, though President Donald Trump (who made public comments) seemed to justify the attacks and warned Iran to make a nuclear deal. Other countries, including Russia, have condemned Israel's actions.

Background of the Conflict:

* Historical Shift: While seemingly surprising today, Iran and Israel had cordial relations for decades, particularly under the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. This was part of Israel's "Periphery Doctrine" to build alliances with non-Arab states against pan-Arab nationalism. Iran even supplied Israel with oil.