Iran’s Student News Network has dismissed reports of an attack on the oil refinery at Shahr Rey in southern Tehran, saying operations there continue without interruption.
The network, however, said that a fire had broken out at a fuel tank outside the refinery and had no connection to it.
Iran’s oil ministry earlier said that an Israeli attack targeted the Shahran oil depot, which is also located in Tehran, igniting a fire there. The ministry said the situation there was under control.
As the Israel-Iran conflict intensifies, Bangladesh, its interim Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, and the major political parties are navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, emphasizing de-escalation and upholding principles of international law. Their views, while generally aligned on humanitarian concerns, reflect the nation's historical foreign policy and current economic imperatives.
Bangladesh's Official Stance: Condemnation and Call for Calm
The Bangladeshi government has unequivocally expressed its strong condemnation and deep concern over the latest Israeli military attacks against Iran. A statement issued by the Foreign Ministry on June 13, 2025, highlighted the following:
Violation of International Law: Bangladesh considers the Israeli attacks a "blatant act of hostility" and a "clear violation of the United Nations Charter and fundamental principles of international law and the sovereignty of Iran."
Threat to Peace and Security: Dhaka stated that these attacks pose a "serious threat to regional and global peace and security with far-reaching consequences."
Call for Restraint and Diplomacy: Bangladesh urged all parties to exercise the "utmost restraint" and refrain from any actions that could further escalate tensions. It underscored that "diplomacy and mutual respect remain the only viable path to lasting peace."
UN and International Community Action: Bangladesh called upon the United Nations and the international community to "act collectively in support of a stable Middle East."
This official stance aligns with Bangladesh's long-standing foreign policy of "friendship to all, malice towards none" and its historical solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Dr. Muhammad Yunus: Focus on Stability and Global Responsibility
While Dr. Muhammad Yunus, as the interim Chief Adviser, has his primary focus on domestic issues and steering the country towards elections, his administration's foreign policy pronouncements would reflect the official government stance.
Given his background as a Nobel Peace Laureate and advocate for human development, it's highly probable that Dr. Yunus's personal views would strongly echo the calls for peace, de-escalation, and adherence to international law. He would likely emphasize the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and the need for global cooperation to resolve it. His administration's efforts to diversify foreign relations and enhance Bangladesh's autonomy on the global stage suggest a desire for a stable international environment conducive to economic growth and development. Any comments from Dr. Yunus would likely be framed within the context of global stability being essential for Bangladesh's economic well-being, particularly concerning remittances and trade.
Major Political Parties: United on Principle, Varied on Emphasis
While specific detailed statements from all individual political parties might vary slightly in their emphasis, the general sentiment within Bangladesh's political landscape regarding the Israel-Iran conflict largely mirrors the official government position.
Awami League (if in power): The ruling party (or previously ruling party, depending on the interim government's duration) would generally maintain a strong stance condemning Israeli aggression and supporting Palestinian rights, in line with its historical foreign policy. Their emphasis would be on upholding international law and promoting regional stability to safeguard Bangladesh's economic interests, especially remittances from the Middle East.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): As a major opposition party, the BNP would likely also condemn Israeli actions and express solidarity with Muslim nations. They might, however, use the opportunity to criticize the government's handling of the economic fallout of the conflict or to highlight any perceived weaknesses in its foreign policy. They would also likely call for strong action from the international community.
Islamist Parties: Parties with an Islamist leaning would likely express the strongest condemnation of Israeli actions, framing it as an attack on Muslim lands and sovereignty. They would likely call for greater unity among Muslim nations and stronger support for Palestine.
Overall Consensus:
Across the political spectrum in Bangladesh, there is a broad consensus on:
* Condemnation of Israeli military action against Iran.
* Solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
* Calls for restraint and de-escalation from all parties involved.
* Emphasis on diplomacy and peaceful resolution.
* Concern over the economic implications for Bangladesh, especially regarding oil prices and remittances.
The core of Bangladesh's approach remains rooted in its commitment to international law, its historical ties to the Muslim world, and its pragmatic recognition of the economic vulnerabilities that global instability can create.
Israeli media have reported that the number of people missing following the Iranian strikes on Bat Yam, where dozens were previously unaccounted for, now stands at seven people, citing regional police commander Daniel Hadad.
“There is great destruction here, lots of rubble and debris that has to be lifted to find the missing,” said Hadad.
“This could take days,” he added.
Following Iran's explicit threats to target American, British, and French military bases if they interfere with Iranian operations against Israel, the international community held its breath, wondering how the United States, and particularly President Donald Trump, would react. Far from being on the "backfoot," Trump has unleashed a torrent of warnings, reaffirming a hawkish stance and putting the onus squarely on Tehran to de-escalate.
In-Depth Analysis: The Geopolitical Chessboard
The current volatile situation in the Middle East, primarily fueled by escalating Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, has pushed US-Iran relations to a precarious edge. Iran's latest threat against Western military assets marks a dangerous escalation, raising the specter of a direct confrontation.
Trump's Stance: From "Deal" to "Devastation"
Donald Trump, who has been deeply involved in the Iran nuclear negotiations – or lack thereof – has responded to Iran's threats with characteristic defiance. Rather than exhibiting a "backfoot" posture, his public statements, primarily on social media, have been an emphatic warning to Iran. Key takeaways from his recent remarks include:
Unequivocal Denial of US Involvement in Israeli Strikes: Trump has vehemently denied any US involvement in the recent Israeli attacks on Iran, aiming to disassociate Washington from Jerusalem's actions while simultaneously allowing Israel to operate.
"Full Strength and Might" Warning: He has explicitly warned Iran that if it attacks the US "in any form," the "full strength and might of the US Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before." This is a clear deterrent message, leveraging the perceived military superiority of the US.
"Second Chance" for a Nuclear Deal: Despite the heightened tensions, Trump has also framed this moment as a "second chance" for Iran to come to the negotiating table and secure a nuclear deal "before there is nothing left and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire." This suggests a two-pronged approach: intense pressure coupled with an offer (albeit a heavily conditioned one) for a diplomatic resolution on US terms.
"Calling Me to Speak": Trump has claimed that Iranian officials are "calling me to speak," though he provided no further details. While unverified, this assertion serves to project an image of leverage and control over the situation.
Support for Israel's Actions: Implicitly, by denying US involvement but not condemning Israel's actions, Trump has lent support to Israel's aggressive posture, which has included striking critical Iranian nuclear and military targets.
Why Not "Backfoot"?
The notion of Trump being on the "backfoot" seems misplaced in this context. His responses indicate a calculated strategy:
Deterrence through Strength: The primary objective is to deter Iran from targeting US interests or personnel by clearly outlining the severe consequences.
Shifting Blame/Responsibility: By denying US involvement in Israeli strikes, Trump aims to avoid being drawn directly into Israel's conflict while still allowing for a strong US protective stance for its allies.
Leveraging Crisis for Negotiation: The intensified pressure is also being used as leverage to force Iran back to the negotiating table, seemingly on terms dictated by the US.
The Road Ahead: High Stakes and Uncertainty
The current climate is fraught with peril. Iran's defiant rhetoric and missile barrages, coupled with Israel's continued strikes and Trump's unwavering warnings, create a highly unpredictable scenario. The cancellation of US-Iran nuclear talks scheduled for Oman further underscores the breakdown of diplomatic channels.
The international community, including the G7 leaders meeting currently, are grappling with the potential for an all-out regional war. The impact on global oil markets, supply chains, and regional stability is already evident. Trump's approach, while asserting strength, carries inherent risks of miscalculation and escalation. Whether his strong-arm tactics will ultimately lead to a de-escalation and a renewed diplomatic path, or push the region further into conflict, remains the most critical question.
Three Palestinians have been killed and others injured after Israeli forces opened fire on people waiting to receive food assistance in Gaza, a news report says.
Medical sources told the Palestinian news agency Wafa the lethal incident occurred near the so-called Netzarim Corridor in central Gaza, and that several people waiting for aid in Khan Younis in southern Gaza and Al-Tawam in northern Gaza were also injured when Israeli forces opened fire on them.
Fuel production, supply, and distribution at the Tehran Oil Refinery remain uninterrupted, according to Iran’s Student News Network.
This comes after an overnight fire broke out at a fuel tank unrelated to the refinery, following an Israeli strike.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is sending shockwaves across global markets, and Bangladesh is already feeling the reverberations. Concerns are mounting over rising oil prices, disrupted supply chains, and potential impacts on remittances, all crucial elements for the Bangladeshi economy.
Impact on Bangladesh: What We Know So Far
Soaring Oil Prices: Bangladesh is heavily reliant on imported fuel. With global oil prices surging due to the conflict, the cost of everything from transportation to food is expected to rise. This could lead to increased inflation and put a significant strain on the national budget. The price of LNG, another primary fuel, is also closely linked to oil and is expected to climb.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Renewed instability in the Red Sea and Gulf region threatens to disrupt key shipping lanes. This could lead to longer transit times, higher freight costs, and delays in cargo handling, impacting Bangladesh's vital export sector, particularly ready-made garments. Rerouting ships around the Cape of Good Hope adds substantial time and cost to voyages.
Remittance Concerns: A significant portion of Bangladesh's foreign exchange comes from remittances sent by migrant workers in the Middle East. If the conflict spreads and affects the economies of neighboring states, it could lead to reduced labor demand, wage cuts, or even job losses for these workers, directly impacting thousands of Bangladeshi families.
Trade Relations: While Bangladesh does not formally recognize Israel, and officially bans direct trade, reports suggest indirect trade does occur. Bangladesh has significant commercial ties with Iran, particularly in fertilizers, oil-related products, and raw materials. Any escalating sanctions or blockades against Iran could disrupt these strategic commercial ties. Bangladesh condemns Israeli military attacks against Iran and calls for diplomacy.
Aviation Sector: Airlines are already being forced to reroute flights to avoid conflict zones, resulting in longer travel times, increased fuel consumption, and rising ticket prices. This has a ripple effect on global air cargo flows and regional carriers.
Looking Ahead:
The Bangladeshi government and businesses are closely monitoring the situation. While Bangladesh has secured a six-month long-term oil supply deal (July-December), the long-term implications of sustained high oil prices remain a major concern. The focus for Bangladesh will be on mitigating the economic fallout and safeguarding its energy security and export market. The international community's efforts to de-escalate tensions will be crucial for global stability and, consequently, for Bangladesh's economic well-being.
The escalating conflict between Iran and Israel is casting a long and worrying shadow over the United Kingdom and continental Europe, threatening to destabilize economies, reignite inflation, and deepen existing geopolitical anxieties. As direct military exchanges intensify in the Middle East, the ripple effects are already being felt across the continent, prompting urgent calls for de-escalation from European leaders.
Economic Fallout: Higher Costs, Inflation Fears
Energy Price Surge: The most immediate and significant impact is on energy prices. While the UK and Europe do not source much oil directly from Iran, the global nature of the oil market means prices are soaring worldwide. Brent Crude, the international benchmark, has seen a sharp increase, with concerns growing about the security of the Strait of Hormuz – a vital chokepoint for global oil and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) trade. Any significant disruption there would severely impact European energy supplies and send gas and electricity prices skyrocketing.
UK Impact: UK consumers are already facing the prospect of higher petrol prices at the pump and increased energy bills. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged that the conflict will "deal a blow to the cost of living for ordinary Britons." Businesses, particularly those in logistics and manufacturing, are bracing for increased operating costs due to higher fuel and shipping expenses.
European Impact: Across the Eurozone, rising energy prices threaten to reverse recent progress in taming inflation, complicating the European Central Bank's efforts to manage monetary policy. Higher energy costs will also squeeze manufacturing sectors already grappling with economic headwinds.
Shipping Disruptions: The ongoing tensions in the Red Sea, exacerbated by this new conflict, continue to disrupt crucial shipping lanes. Vessels rerouting around Africa add weeks to journey times and significantly increase shipping costs. These added expenses are ultimately passed on to consumers, contributing to higher prices for a wide range of imported goods.
Supply Chain Vulnerability: Europe's intricate supply chains, still recovering from recent global shocks, face renewed vulnerability. Delays and increased costs for raw materials and finished goods could lead to shortages and further inflationary pressures across the continent.
Business Anxiety: A recent survey revealed that half of UK businesses have already been impacted by the wider Middle East conflict, citing increased costs, shipping delays, and uncertainty over oil prices. This new escalation will only deepen that anxiety and could lead to reduced investment and hiring.
Geopolitical Implications: Heightened Security and Diplomatic Challenges
Security Concerns: The UK has already deployed RAF jets and further military assets to the Middle East, with Iranian state TV warning that UK, French, and US bases could be targeted if they assist in defending Israel. This raises the specter of direct involvement and increased security alerts across Europe.
Migration Pressures: A wider regional conflict could trigger new waves of displacement and migration, putting further strain on European countries already grappling with existing refugee situations.
Diplomatic Tightrope: European leaders, including the EU's foreign policy chief, are urgently calling for restraint from both sides, emphasizing the need to prevent further destabilization and a potential "radioactive release" given concerns about Iran's nuclear program. Balancing alliances with the US and Israel while attempting to de-escalate tensions with Iran presents a significant diplomatic challenge.
Impact on Global Order: The conflict further strains the international rules-based order, drawing European attention away from other critical issues like the war in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical competition with Russia and China.
The full extent of the impact on the UK and Europe remains uncertain, but the immediate signs point to a period of heightened economic pressure and geopolitical instability. European leaders are united in their call for an immediate de-escalation, recognising the immense stakes for their own citizens and the global economy.
Stay with Daily Dazzling Dawn for continuous live coverage as this critical situation evolves.
Here’s some video showing the Iranian oil depot on fire and Iranian missiles in the sky over Israel:
The kingdom’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Authority says it has decided to reopen Jordan’s airspace after closing it overnight amid the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran.
The world is watching with bated breath as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies, sending immediate shockwaves through global oil markets and raising serious concerns about the stability of the international economy. Following a series of direct military exchanges, including Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and retaliatory missile barrages from Tehran, the price of crude oil has surged dramatically, putting renewed pressure on inflation and threatening to derail economic recovery efforts worldwide.
Oil Market in Turmoil: Prices Soar on Supply Fears
Brent crude has jumped significantly, pushing towards the $80 per barrel mark, with some analysts predicting it could even breach $90 or $100 if the conflict escalates further. This surge reflects deep anxieties over potential supply disruptions from the Middle East, a region that accounts for a substantial portion of global oil production.
WTI crude, the US benchmark, has seen similar sharp increases, reflecting the global nature of the concern.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, remains a focal point of worry. Any perceived threat to this vital waterway, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil passes, could trigger a severe supply shock and send prices even higher.
Increased "Risk Premium": Investors are factoring in the heightened geopolitical uncertainty, demanding a higher premium for oil as the risk of a wider regional conflict grows. This "fear factor" alone is a significant driver of current price movements.
Economic Fallout: Inflationary Pressures and Growth Concerns
The ripple effects of soaring oil prices are already being felt across the globe:
Renewed Inflationary Pressures: Higher energy costs are a direct input for almost every industry, from manufacturing and transportation to agriculture. Businesses will likely pass on these increased costs to consumers, potentially re-igniting inflation at a time when many central banks have been struggling to bring it under control. This could lead to a reversal of the recent trend of cooling consumer prices in many advanced economies.
Central Bank Dilemma: With inflation threatening to surge again, central banks, including the Bank of England and the US Federal Reserve, face a difficult choice. They may be forced to maintain higher interest rates for longer, or even consider further hikes, to combat inflation. Such measures, while necessary to stabilize prices, risk stifling economic growth and potentially pushing economies into recession.
Impact on Trade and Currencies: Oil-importing nations, especially those heavily reliant on Middle Eastern crude, will see their import bills rise significantly. This could widen current account deficits and put downward pressure on their currencies, making imports even more expensive.
Supply Chain Vulnerability: Beyond oil, a prolonged conflict could disrupt wider supply chains, leading to shortages and further price increases for various commodities and manufactured goods. Shipping costs, already elevated due to existing geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea, are expected to rise further as insurers levy higher premiums and vessels consider longer, alternative routes.
Market Volatility: Global stock markets have reacted negatively, with major indices experiencing declines as investors seek safer assets like gold, which has also seen a significant price surge.
Analyst Outlook:
Analysts are closely monitoring the situation. While some suggest that the market impact could be temporary if the conflict de-escalates swiftly, the potential for prolonged instability and direct disruptions to oil infrastructure remains a significant concern. The interconnectedness of the global economy means that a sustained conflict in the Middle East would have profound and widespread economic repercussions, impacting everything from the cost of living for ordinary citizens to the stability of international trade and financial systems.
Stay tuned to Daily Dazzling Dawn for continuous live updates and in-depth analysis as this critical situation unfolds.
The Israeli defence force says that in the last hour it has conducted “another wave of attacks” in western Iran, targeting missile storage and infrastructure.
Israel Defense Forces say seven unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been launched toward Israeli territory in the past hour.
They add that the drones were intercepted by Israel's Air Force and the Israeli Navy.
Footage shared by the IDF shows an explosion in the sky, which they say is the interception of a UAV.
The recent, unprecedented escalation in hostilities between Iran and Israel has plunged the Middle East into its most perilous state in decades, raising urgent questions about the potential for a regional conflict to spiral into a full-blown global war. With direct missile attacks and targeted strikes on strategic sites, the long-simmering shadow war has erupted into overt confrontation, sending shockwaves through international capitals and financial markets.
The Current Landscape:
Following a series of intense exchanges, including Israeli strikes on what it claims are Iranian nuclear and military facilities, and Iranian missile barrages targeting Israeli cities, the region is on a knife-edge. Reports indicate significant casualties and infrastructure damage on both sides. Iran has vowed "more severe and powerful" retaliation if Israeli aggression continues, while Israel maintains its right to defend itself and dismantle threats to its security. The immediate concern is a cycle of escalating retaliation that becomes increasingly difficult to control.
Why the "World War" Fear?
The fear of a broader, even global, conflict stems from several critical factors:
Entangled Alliances: Both Iran and Israel have powerful international backers. The United States maintains a strong security alliance with Israel, providing military aid and diplomatic support. Conversely, Iran has cultivated relationships with various non-state actors and, to a lesser extent, certain state actors who might be drawn into a wider conflict. Any direct military involvement by major powers could quickly expand the conflict's geographical scope.
Geopolitical Chessboard: The Middle East is a complex geopolitical arena, with numerous proxy conflicts and competing interests. An all-out Iran-Israel war could ignite existing flashpoints in Lebanon (Hezbollah), Syria, Yemen (Houthis), and Iraq (Shia militias), transforming the region into a sprawling battlefield. The disruption of global oil flows from the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for international energy markets, would have severe economic repercussions worldwide.
Nuclear Ambitions: The most alarming aspect remains Iran's advancing nuclear program. Israel views a nuclear-armed Iran as an existential threat, while Iran maintains its program is for peaceful purposes. If Israel's strikes are perceived to gravely undermine Iran's nuclear capabilities, it could push Tehran to accelerate its program or even withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, potentially triggering a regional nuclear arms race and further destabilizing deterrence.
Historical Precedents: While every conflict is unique, history offers cautionary tales of regional disputes spiraling into larger wars due to complex alliances, miscalculations, and unchecked escalation. The lead-up to World War I, for instance, saw a series of localized crises eventually drawing in major European powers due to intertwined defense pacts and escalating tensions.
Expert Perspectives and Global Implications:
Analysts are divided on the immediate probability of a world war. Some argue that despite the alarming rhetoric and military actions, both sides and their international partners still possess a degree of strategic rationality and a shared interest in avoiding a full-scale global conflagration. The economic fallout, humanitarian cost, and unpredictable nature of such a conflict would be catastrophic for all involved.
However, others warn that the risk of miscalculation is exceptionally high. The "fog of war," coupled with strong domestic pressures on leaders in both Iran and Israel, could lead to decisions that inadvertently trigger a wider conflict. The potential for cyberattacks, hybrid warfare tactics, and the involvement of non-state actors further complicates the situation, making de-escalation difficult.
Economically, the conflict has already sent jitters through global markets. Oil prices have surged, and a prolonged war could lead to severe energy crises and inflationary pressures worldwide, impacting everything from transport to manufacturing. The global supply chain, already vulnerable from recent disruptions, would face immense strain.
The Path Forward:
International calls for de-escalation, restraint, and diplomatic solutions are growing louder. The United Nations and various world leaders are urging both sides to step back from the brink and engage in meaningful dialogue. However, given the deep-seated animosities and strategic objectives of the parties involved, finding a viable path to de-escalation remains an immense challenge. The world watches with bated breath, hoping that reason prevails over the dangerous currents of conflict.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is casting a long shadow of anxiety and stress across Muslim communities worldwide. With deep historical, religious, and familial ties to the region, many Muslims are grappling with profound worry over the escalating violence and its potential for wider devastation. Concerns range from the safety of loved ones in affected areas to the broader geopolitical implications for the entire Muslim world. The heightened tensions are fueling a sense of distress, as many fear the humanitarian consequences and the further destabilization of an already volatile region.
Israeli media have reported that the number of people confirmed killed in Iranian missile strikes on Bat Yam, just south of Tel Aviv, has risen to six.
Photo from AP/AFP
Numerical Strength Versus Technological Supremacy and Strategic Surprise
As the direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran intensifies, a critical question emerges: Can Iran "win" this conflict? While "victory" in such a volatile and complex scenario is difficult to define, military analysts and recent events suggest a challenging path for Iran, highlighting a significant disparity in conventional capabilities, technological advancement, and strategic execution.
The Current Battlefield: Israel's Strategic Edge
Recent Israeli strikes, part of "Operation Rising Lion," have demonstrated a remarkable level of strategic surprise and devastating effectiveness. Reports indicate successful targeting of Iran's Defense Ministry headquarters, key nuclear facilities like Natanz (where damage to the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and electricity systems is "extremely effective"), and crucial military bases and missile installations. Notably, Israeli strikes have also aimed at Iran's energy infrastructure, including the South Pars gas field, and have reportedly killed numerous senior Iranian military officers and nuclear scientists, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami. This suggests a calculated effort to degrade Iran's leadership, technical capabilities, and retaliatory potential.
While Iran has retaliated with waves of ballistic missiles and drones – "Operation True Promise III" – causing casualties and damage in Israel, the effectiveness of Israel's multi-layered missile defense systems, like the Iron Dome, has been evident. This contrasts with Iran's reportedly "outdated" and "severely disabled" air defenses. Israeli experts highlight how fusing intelligence and special operations has allowed for precise targeting and asymmetric air-defense suppression, giving them a significant advantage.
Military Comparison: Quality Over Quantity?
On paper, Iran boasts a larger military force in terms of active personnel and certain types of hardware. According to Global Firepower Index (as of June 2025), Iran ranks 14th globally, compared to Israel's 17th.
However, these numerical advantages often mask crucial qualitative disparities:
The Nuclear Factor and "Winning" the War:
The ongoing conflict places Iran's nuclear program squarely in the crosshairs. Israel's explicit targeting of nuclear facilities, even if not "fatal" to the program, aims to set back any potential weaponization efforts. Experts warn that while Iran can enrich uranium to near-weapons-grade levels (60%), weaponizing it would take additional time – a window Israel seems unwilling to grant. The direct attacks on nuclear sites could ironically strengthen the argument within Iran for pursuing nuclear deterrence to ensure national security.
In a direct conventional war, current assessments suggest Iran would struggle to "win" against Israel's superior air power, advanced technology, and well-trained forces, especially with potential US support. Israel's strategy appears to be one of "decapitation" – targeting leadership and critical infrastructure to degrade Iran's ability to sustain prolonged conflict.
Broader Implications and a Bleak Outlook:
For Iran, a "win" might involve successfully deterring further Israeli strikes, demonstrating resilience, and maintaining its regional influence through proxies, even if its conventional forces suffer. However, the current trajectory suggests Iran is facing immense pressure. The conflict's economic fallout is already evident, with oil prices leaping and global markets slumping. A prolonged war, particularly if it disrupts the Strait of Hormuz (a key oil chokepoint), could have devastating global economic consequences.
The cancelation of nuclear talks further complicates the situation, removing a crucial diplomatic off-ramp. The international community is urging de-escalation, but with both sides seemingly committed to further retaliation, the path to a quick resolution appears grim. In this escalating showdown, a definitive "win" for either side in a traditional military sense seems unlikely without catastrophic regional and global repercussions. Instead, the focus is on who can inflict more damage while minimizing their own, and whether this brutal exchange can be contained before it spirals into a wider conflagration.
Direct Strikes Mount as Casualties Rise; Diplomacy Halted
The long-simmering "shadow war" between Israel and Iran has violently erupted into direct, devastating exchanges in recent days, pushing the Middle East to the precipice of a wider regional conflict. Both nations are engaged in increasingly aggressive military actions, causing casualties, targeting critical infrastructure, and sending shockwaves across the globe.
Unprecedented Escalation and Fallout:
Since the beginning of June, Israel has launched a series of "sweeping military campaigns" against Iranian targets, marking a significant departure from previous covert operations. Reports confirm strikes on Iran's Defense Ministry headquarters in Tehran, as well as key nuclear facilities including Natanz and the Esfahan Nuclear Technology Center. These strikes, part of "Operation Rising Lion," also targeted various military bases, missile installations, and even expanded to Iran's critical energy infrastructure, including the South Pars gas field, the world's largest. Early battle damage assessments indicate "extremely effective" strikes on Natanz, though the damage is not yet considered "fatal" to Iran's nuclear program. Israeli strikes have also reportedly killed numerous senior Iranian military officers, including generals and nuclear scientists, suggesting a deliberate effort to degrade Iran's leadership and technical capabilities.
Iran has swiftly and fiercely retaliated with multiple waves of missile and drone attacks. Major Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, have faced barrages, resulting in fatalities and widespread injuries. Israeli media confirmed at least eight deaths and dozens injured from Iranian missile strikes in Israel, with reports of a woman in her 20s dying after a strike in northern Israel, and a 10-year-old boy among four killed in the Galilee region. Iran, in turn, claims Israeli attacks have killed at least 80 people, including 20 children, and wounded 800 others. Iranian Revolutionary Guard claims to have hit key infrastructure, including fighter jet fuel production facilities.
Nuclear Brinkmanship and Diplomatic Collapse:
A central and terrifying concern amidst this escalation is Iran's nuclear program. Israel maintains that Iran is actively pursuing nuclear weapons – a claim Tehran denies, insisting its program is for peaceful purposes. Israeli strikes have explicitly targeted sites "related to the Iranian regime's nuclear weapons project," including facilities for metallic uranium production and uranium enrichment. This direct targeting of nuclear sites significantly raises the stakes, with some analysts warning it could inadvertently accelerate Iran's race towards a nuclear deterrent.
The rapidly deteriorating situation has had immediate diplomatic repercussions. Scheduled nuclear talks between the United States and Iran in Oman, crucial for de-escalation, were abruptly cancelled. Iran's Foreign Minister stated that negotiations could not continue while the country was under assault, effectively suspending diplomatic engagement.
Global Alarm and Regional Instability:
The international community is gravely concerned. World leaders, including the UN Secretary-General, Pope Francis, and influential figures like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, have issued urgent calls for de-escalation, restraint, and a return to diplomacy. There are palpable fears of the conflict engulfing the broader Middle East, a region already volatile from ongoing conflicts like Israel's 20-month war in Gaza. Countries like Jordan have closed their airspace, and the UK has moved military assets to the region, facing warnings from Iran that British bases could be targeted if they aid in Israel's defense.
The Roots of a Volatile Rivalry:
This direct confrontation is the culmination of decades of deep-seated animosity. Since Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, the two nations have been ideological adversaries, with Iran consistently supporting anti-Israel proxy groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. Both countries view each other as direct threats to their regional influence, leading to a complex web of proxy conflicts, particularly in Syria where Israel has regularly targeted Iranian assets. The mutual suspicions surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions and a history of extensive cyber warfare have only intensified the dangerous rivalry.
Uncertain Future:
The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides vowing further retaliation. Future scenarios range from continued and potentially more destructive direct escalation, risking a full-blown regional war, to a return to a "shadow war" of indirect confrontations. However, the unprecedented direct strikes have set a dangerous new precedent, making de-escalation through diplomacy a challenging, though critically urgent, pathway. The world watches with bated breath as the conflict between Israel and Iran teeters on the edge of profound and widespread catastrophe.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has described the period following the recent Iranian missile strikes as a "very sad and difficult mourning" for the nation. In a post on X, Herzog condemned these "criminal Iranian attacks" and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured and the discovery of those still missing. Earlier reports from Israeli media indicated that dozens of individuals were unaccounted for after a strike in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv.
Israeli security forces inspect destroyed buildings that were hit by a missile fired from Iran, near Tel Aviv, Israel, Sunday, June 15, 2025 [Ohad Zwigenberg/ AP]
But the American president has warned that if the US is “attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the US Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before”.
“However, we can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel, and end this bloody conflict!!!” he wrote in a post on Truth Social.
The Israeli military says its forces have “completed another wave of attacks in western Iran” targeting missiles storage and launching infrastructure in the past hour.
There was no immediate comment from Iran.
Earlier, the Israeli military reported that some of the missiles that targeted the country’s central areas were fired from Yemen.
The Houthi rebels in Yemen have just confirmed that.
In a statement carried by Al Masirah TV, the Houthis said the strikes were carried out in coordination with the Iranian military and involved a number of “Palestine 2 hypersonic ballistic missiles”.
It said the targets were “sensitive” sites of the “Israeli enemy in the occupied Jaffa area”.
As we’ve been reporting, at least four people were killed in the attacks on central Israel and dozens more wounded. At least four others were also killed in a previous round of attacks on northern Israel.
The recent spike in military tensions between Iran and Israel was not entirely unexpected.
The two nations have long been engaged in a covert conflict, striking each other’s interests indirectly and often without claiming responsibility.
However, these hostilities have intensified since the outbreak of the Gaza war. In September, Israel assassinated Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, followed in October by the killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar—allegedly the mastermind behind the 7 October attacks. Both Hezbollah and Hamas are widely seen as Iran’s key regional proxies.
In retaliation, Iran launched over 180 missiles at Israel in October, though most were intercepted.
Israel responded with airstrikes, but military actions had since decreased—until now.
Israel considers Iran a grave threat to its existence, while Iran’s supreme leader has repeatedly referred to Israel in inflammatory terms, calling it a "cancerous tumour."
Israel suspects Iran is working toward developing nuclear weapons and claims its current military campaign is aimed at Iranian military and nuclear facilities.
Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, but skepticism remains among Western nations. Just this Thursday, the UN’s nuclear watchdog accused Iran of violating its non-proliferation commitments.
Talks between Washington and Tehran on Iran’s nuclear programme were scheduled for Sunday but have now been cancelled, according to mediator Oman.
Lebanon has reopened its airspace as of 10:00 local time (08:00 BST).
The announcement, which came from the ministry of public works and transport, emphasises the decision to close the airspace had been made for necessary security reasons.
There has been no update from Israel's Ministry of Transport since yesterday, when it announced Israel's airspace would be closed "until further notice".
Iranian state media outlet IRNA has also said that no flights will operate in the country "until further notice".
Jordan has reopened its airspace at 07:30 local time (04:30 GMT), the country's civil aviation commission said, according to Reuters.
It comes a day after flights were suspended in the country amid the rising tensions between Israel and Iran.
At least three people were killed across Israel and over 40 injured, emergency services reported early on Saturday.
It was the most intense and deadly few hours inside Israel since the Hamas cross-border attacks on 7 Oct 7 2023 that triggered the war in Gaza, but the toll was dwarfed by the damage that Israel inflicted on Iran.
Iran said it has fired hundreds of ballistic missiles towards Israel in retaliation for Israel’s attacks on its nuclear facilities and military leaders.
Several Iranian missiles evaded Israel’s Iron Dome defence systems overnight and hit central Tel Aviv and other parts of the country.
Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said Tehran had crossed a red line by targeting civilian areas.
The Omani Foreign Ministry says Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi has held a series of phone calls with his counterparts around the world “as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to contain the dangerous military escalation and tensions” in the Middle East.
Those tensions were “triggered by Israel’s direct attacks on Iranian territory”, the ministry said in a statement shared on social media.
It added that Albusaidi stressed during the calls “the importance of halting the aggression … in order to prevent further bloodshed, destruction, and loss of life, and to safeguard the security, stability, and the supreme interests of the region and its peoples”.
On Friday, the minister condemned Israel’s attack on Iran as “illegal, unjustifiable and a grave threat to regional stability”.
Israeli fighter jets have reportedly bombed an army base in the city of Zanjan, about 325km (200 miles) from Tehran in northern Iran, according to UK-based outlet Iran International.
Footage published by the outlet shows thick smoke and a fire raging hours after the attack.
We will bring you more information when we have it.
#BREAKING Videos obtained by Iran International show thick orange smoke and a massive fire in Zanjan, northern Iran, where an army base was reportedly targeted by Israeli airstrikes. The fire is still burning hours after the attack. pic.twitter.com/G7OENEmhyd
— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) June 14, 2025
Jo Floto
Middle East bureau chief in Central Israel
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Just before dawn, sirens sounded once again, sending millions of people in Israel to seek shelter as another barrage of missiles was launched against the country by Iran.
The sound of multiple interceptions could be heard, as well as larger explosions indicating a direct hit.
Already on social media we are seeing images of a residential street in central Israel that has been devastated by a missile strike.
Rubble is strewn across the road, surrounding crumpled cars close to what looks like a partially collapsed house. Initial reports suggest there are casualties.
The authorities here will not allow us to share the exact location of missile strikes, for fear it will provide useful information to the Iranian military.
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