#IsraelIranConflict

The Israel-Iran conflict is a decades-long power struggle rooted in ideology, security threats, and competing visions for the Middle East. Here's what's happening:

*Current Escalation:*

Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation aimed at disrupting Iran's nuclear ambitions. The operation involved airstrikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, missile factories, and top military personnel. This move has sharply escalated tensions between the two arch-rivals, bringing the Middle East to the brink of war.

*Key Issues:*

- *Nuclear Program:* Israel sees Iran's nuclear program as an existential threat, while Iran denies pursuing nuclear weapons.

- *Proxy Wars:* Iran supports armed groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which frequently launch attacks on Israeli territory.

- *Direct Attacks:* Both countries have engaged in direct attacks, including Iran's unprecedented missile strike on Israel in April and Israel's latest bombing of Iranian soil.

*Timeline of Recent Events:*

- *October 7, 2023:* Hamas launched a deadly attack in southern Israel, killing over 1,100 people.

- *April 13-14, 2024:* Iran launched its first-ever direct attack on Israel, firing 300+ drones and missiles.

- *June 13, 2025:* Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure.

*International Response:*

The US has officially distanced itself from Operation Rising Lion, stating that Israel acted unilaterally. However, Washington remains invested in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and managing the broader fallout from Israeli actions.

*What's Next?*

Retaliation is expected, whether through direct missile strikes, proxy attacks, or cyber retaliation. The risk of wider regional war is at its highest in decades, and diplomacy may be the only way to avert catastrophe. Talks between the US and Iran, scheduled for June 15 in Oman, may be impacted by the recent airstrikes.