Middle East – In a significant escalation of hostilities, Israel and Iran have engaged in direct military confrontations involving drone and missile strikes, marking a departure from their historically covert engagements.
On June 13, Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion,” a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, including the uranium enrichment centre at Natanz. The operation resulted in the deaths of high-ranking Iranian officials, including Hossein Salami, commander of the Revolutionary Guard, and Mohammad Bagheri, chief of the Armed Forces, as well as several nuclear scientists.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the strikes as a pre-emptive measure against Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities, which he described as an existential threat. He emphasized the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, citing the potential for a “nuclear holocaust.”
In response, Iran launched a retaliatory attack involving over 100 drones targeting Israel. While many were intercepted, some caused damage in residential areas of Tehran, leading to civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the Israeli strikes and vowed a “forceful and immediate response,” signalling a potential for further escalation.
The United States distanced itself from the Israeli operation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that Washington was not involved and warning Iran against targeting American bases.
The United Nations and European Union have called for restraint, emphasizing the need to avoid a broader regional conflict. Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions and resume negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
The direct military exchanges between Israel and Iran represent a significant shift in their long-standing conflict, traditionally characterized by proxy engagements and covert operations. The involvement of high-ranking officials and critical infrastructure in the attacks underscores the severity of the situation.
Analysts warn that continued escalation could destabilize the Middle East, drawing in neighbouring countries and disrupting global energy markets. The international community faces the challenge of mediating between the two nations to prevent a full-scale war.