#IsraelIranConflict The Israel-Iran conflict has escalated into a full-blown crisis, with Israel launching a series of airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites. Here's what's happening¹ ²:
- *Escalating Tensions*: Israel's Operation Rising Lion targeted key Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, killing top military leaders and nuclear scientists.
- *Iran's Response*: Iran has vowed "severe punishment" and launched over 100 drones at Israel in retaliation. The country has also requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
- *Global Reactions*³:
- *France*: French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed Israel's right to defend itself but urged restraint to avoid further destabilization.
- *UK*: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for a return to diplomacy to prevent further regional instability.
- *China*: China expressed deep worry over the consequences of the Israeli strikes and urged all sides to prevent further escalation.
- *US*: The US distanced itself from the Israeli strikes, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that the US had no involvement.
*Key Developments*:
- *Israeli Strikes*: Israel has launched multiple waves of airstrikes on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, military installations, and key personnel.
- *Casualties*: Reports indicate that several top Iranian military commanders, including the head of the Revolutionary Guard, Hossein Salami, and the chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, were killed.
- *Nuclear Facilities*: Iran's Natanz nuclear facility was damaged in the strikes, although there are no signs of radioactive contamination outside the site.
*What's Next?*
- *Iranian Retaliation*: Israel expects "several waves of Iranian attacks" in response to the strikes.
- *Diplomatic Efforts*: The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the escalating conflict.
- *Regional Impact*: The conflict has raised concerns about regional stability, with oil prices surging and world leaders calling for restraint.