Seven Revolutionary Guard members and two conscript soldiers were killed in Israeli strikes on two military centres in central Yazd province this afternoon, Iranian forces announced.

The Revolutionary Guard’s Al-Ghadir unit in Yazd said the casualties resulted from “aggressions by the savage Zionist regime and its mercenaries” against the military facilities.

“Seven Revolutionary Guard personnel and two conscript soldiers achieved martyrdom, and several others were wounded, with treatment of these dear ones underway,” the unit said.

Israel’s emergency medical service Magen David Adom said 24 people have been killed in the country since Israel began its war with Iran 10 days ago.

It said its teams have treated 1,213 Israelis. These include 16 who are in serious condition.

The rest have been treated for moderate and mild injuries, as well as for anxiety, it said.

Israeli attacks on Iran have killed more than 400 people.

Masoud Pezeshkian, the Iranian president, has said the US “must receive response to their aggression” following the attacks on Tehran’s nuclear facilities.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Iran and Israel have exchanged missile barrages in the last 24 hours, following US airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities. Air raid sirens blared across Israel as Iranian missiles targeted major population centers and strategic sites, while Israel launched its own renewed strikes on military and nuclear targets within Iran.

The Middle East finds itself on the precipice of a wider conflict after a rapid series of retaliatory actions between Iran and Israel. The latest escalation was triggered by US bombing runs on several Iranian nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, which President Donald Trump declared "obliterated." This aggressive move by the US, citing concerns over Iran's nuclear program, has profoundly altered the regional security landscape.

Iran's response was swift and substantial. Sunday saw Iran unleash two volleys of missiles, reportedly totaling 27, aimed at critical Israeli locations. Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, research facilities, and command centers were among the reported targets. Videos from across Israel showed air raid sirens activating and missile interceptions over major cities, sending millions scrambling for shelters. While Israeli defenses have reportedly intercepted a high percentage of incoming projectiles throughout this conflict, some Iranian drones have reportedly succeeded in striking populated areas, signaling a concerning shift.

Israel, in turn, has responded with further waves of bombings on "military targets" in western Iran, continuing its campaign to degrade Iranian air defenses, missile forces, and nuclear capabilities. Israeli military sources stated their strikes destroyed missile launchers and targeted Iranian soldiers, following earlier reports of successful strikes on centrifuge production facilities and the killing of senior officers within the IRGC Aerospace Force and Quds Force. These targeted killings, while potentially disrupting Iranian command and control temporarily, risk further provoking a determined response.

The current situation marks a critical juncture in the long-simmering rivalry between the two regional powers. Both sides appear to be moving beyond proxy warfare and direct, open confrontation. The involvement of the United States through direct military action against Iranian nuclear sites introduces a volatile new dimension, significantly raising the stakes. International efforts to de-escalate have been ongoing, with British and European diplomats engaging in talks with Iranian officials, but the latest events severely undermine these diplomatic overtures. The stated Iranian commitment to uranium enrichment, despite international pressure, and the US-Israeli insistence on preventing any enrichment on Iranian soil, highlight the deeply entrenched positions that make a diplomatic solution increasingly challenging.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this intense exchange of blows leads to a full-scale regional war or if international mediation can somehow de-escalate the situation. The immediate concern remains the potential for further, more devastating retaliatory strikes from either side, with widespread implications for global stability and energy markets.

Ukraine-Russia War: Eastern Front Remains Active Amid Drone and Missile Strikes

Fighting continues across Ukraine, particularly along the eastern front, as Russian forces press their offensive. Russia has intensified its aerial campaign, utilizing a higher volume of drones, including modernized Shahed-136 variants, for strikes both along the frontline and in Ukraine's rear. Recent reports indicate Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Odesa and Kharkiv, resulting in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

Despite these attacks, Ukrainian forces continue to hold defensive lines. While some Russian advances have been noted in specific areas, such as the Kupyansk and Chasiv Yar directions, these appear to be incremental. Both sides have also engaged in prisoner-of-war exchanges, highlighting a rare area of agreed-upon cooperation amidst the ongoing hostilities. Concerns persist over Russia's stated intentions to "demilitarize" Ukraine and expand its territorial ambitions, which remain a significant obstacle to any potential peace negotiations. Vladimir Putin also recently threatened Ukraine with nuclear weapons for the first time in six months, underscoring the severe risks of continued conflict.

People protest outside the Iranian Embassy in London Credit: Alishia Abodunde/Getty Images

Many people are framing Iran’s options in binary terms. It’s either they escalate on two fronts, with Israel and the US, or they surrender and go to the negotiation table humiliated under strict US conditions.

I don’t think these are Iran’s options. It’s not a matter of escalation or surrender. There are a number of options in between.

I think the smartest option for the Iranians to pursue is not to open two fronts simultaneously.

The best thing you can do with Trump is to ignore him. That’s the best way to hurt him.

The best thing to do against Netanyahu today is to deny him opening another front with the US, because that’s exactly what he wanted from day one. Opening two fronts is not in Iran’s interests.

If they have to play dead, play dead. If they have to keep quiet, keep quiet.

Pakistan condemned the strikes ordered on Iran by Donald Trump, a day after Islamabad said it would nominate the US president for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Pakistan on Sunday said Trump’s decision to bomb Iranian nuclear facilities violated international law and that diplomacy was the only way to resolve the Iran crisis.

“The unprecedented escalation of tension and violence, owing to ongoing aggression against Iran is deeply disturbing. Any further escalation of tensions will have severely damaging implications for the region and beyond,” Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Also on Sunday, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif telephoned Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and “conveyed Pakistan’s condemnation” of the US attacks, a statement from the Pakistani leader said.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has condemned “in the strongest possible terms” the US’s “brutal military aggression” against its “peaceful nuclear facilities“.

It called the attack “a grave and unprecedented violation” of the UN Charter and international law and held the US “fully responsible for the dangerous consequences and far-reaching implications of this egregious act of aggression”.

It said Iran will defend its “territory, sovereignty, security and people by all force and means”, adding that “silence in the face of such blatant aggression would plunge the world into an unprecedented level of danger and chaos”.

It urged the UN Security Council to convene an emergency session to condemn the US’s attack on Iran unequivocally.

The foreign ministry also accused the International Atomic Energy Agency chief, Rafael Grossi, of “evident bias in favour of warmongering parties” that “paved the way for this recent catastrophe” as it called on the agency to “immediately convene and carry out its legal responsibility”.

Most Iranians in the country are still unable to go online due to state-imposed internet restrictions, but those who have managed to find a working proxy connection are also reacting angrily to the war.

“Thirty years of Iranian oil money and thirty years of economic opportunities that could have turned tens of millions of people into citizens like the rest of the world have become three deep pits,” wrote one user on X, in reference to the nuclear sites.

“Trump says let me just drop the heaviest bomb in the world and then it will all be about peace,” another user sarcastically wrote.

Meanwhile, Iranian state media and many hardline politicians have led a furious response after the US strikes on the three nuclear sites.

“It is now clearer than ever, not just for the Iranian nation but for the whole peoples of the region, that all US citizens and military personnel are legitimate targets. We were negotiating and progressing through a diplomatic path, but you chose to spill the blood of your soldiers,” anchor Mehdi Khanalizadeh, of state television Channel 3, said.

The US Department of Homeland Security’s National Terrorism Advisory System has published a bulletin warning of a “heightened threat environment” in the US homeland, according to a CBS News report.

The report said that the bulletin does not include warning of specific threats, but says “low level cyber attacks against US networks by pro-Iranian hacktivists are likely, and cyber actors affiliated with the Iranian government may conduct attacks against US networks”.

In parallel to attacking Iran, and making periodic attacks on Lebanon, Israel is continuing to target civilians across Gaza.

More than 50 Palestinians have been killed in the last 24-hour reporting period, medical sources say, with the attacks concentrated in southern Khan Younis, central Gaza, and northern Gaza City. At least six of those were killed while waiting for aid.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces have continued to carry out a raid on the village of Sanur, south of Jenin, for a second consecutive day.

Soldiers imposed a curfew and turned entire neighbourhoods into military posts, Wafa news agency reported.

Separately, the Palestinian Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs said Israeli authorities have issued or renewed administrative detention orders against 34 Palestinian detainees.

Palestinian Civil Defence teams said they responded to 17 incidents involving falling shrapnel over the past 24 hours, as Israel and Iran continue to exchange attacks.

The US decision to intervene militarily to aid the Israeli attacks on Iran has prompted fears of a serious escalation across the Middle East and brought back memories of the devastation in Iraq following the 2003 US invasion.

Israel launched unprecedented attacks on Iran on June 13, targeting its nuclear sites and top military commanders.

More than 400 people have been killed in Israeli attacks in Iran, while retaliatory strikes by Tehran have killed at least 24 people in Israel.

Our colleagues at Al Jazeera’s Live team have put together a comprehensive piece answering the key questions about the US attacks. 

The Israel-Iran conflict took a dramatic turn today as the United States directly intervened, launching strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. President Trump confirmed the attacks, stating they were in coordination with Israel, a move praised by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Iran has reacted strongly, condemning the US strikes as a betrayal of diplomacy and warning of severe consequences. While Iranian personnel were reportedly evacuated from the targeted sites, the attacks mark a significant escalation, raising concerns about regional stability and potential retaliation.

Key developments:

US Strikes: The US military bombed the Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz nuclear sites in Iran.

Iranian Response: Iran has condemned the US action and vowed retaliation.

Israeli Stance: Prime Minister Netanyahu has lauded the US intervention.

Casualties: Reports indicate hundreds of casualties on both sides since the conflict began.

International Reaction: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says there have been no reports of increased off-site radiation levels following the US attacks.

Regional Concerns: The conflict has raised fears of a wider regional war, with potential impacts on global oil supplies.

The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this dangerous conflict.

Following US attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Behrouz Kamalvandi, a spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says efforts to develop the civilian nuclear sector will go on.

“This is not the first time our facilities are attacked,” Kamalvandi told Iran’s YJC news agency. “Considering our capabilities, the nuclear industry must continue.”

The organisation confirmed attacks took place on its Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz sites. Iran said there were no signs of radioactive contamination at the three locations.

Iran has maintained its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes only, and US intelligence agencies assessed that Tehran is not actively pursuing a nuclear bomb.

Colin Clarke, director of research at The Soufan Center, a global intelligence security consultancy, has said the US has been preparing the attack on Iran “for quite a long time”.

“The US military always has a various kind of … portfolio of options for any type of target,” Clarke told Al Jazeera.

“Given the US recent history in the Middle East, CENTCOM or Central Command plays a really significant role in a lot of that planning, and so I think the president likely selected from a number of different options.”

Clarke said “there was a lot of deception” involved in terms of what the US said it was going to do versus what it actually did – and more importantly, “when it did that.”

He added that it will be difficult to rely solely on satellite imagery “to really get at the extent of the damage” of the US attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites.

“I think just the massive scale of the damage here and the magnitude of the strikes with the weapons involved, makes it more likely than not that we’re gonna have to wait a while for a proper battle damage assessment,” he said.

A very clear message from the United States: that this is not an open-ended operation, although there was the warning that while it is intentionally limited, the capabilities of united states military is not.

Therefore, in the words of chairman of the joint chief of staff during the Pentagon news conference, retaliation on America, or American assets, interests and people and allies ,as well, would be a “very poor choice”.

What is clear is this was a well-coordinated operation. President Donald Trump on Thursday said he would give the Iranians a two-week window. The decision was made probably sometime later on Thursday or early on Friday – and that is when everything started in motion.

The Americans are saying this was a huge success, but as we heard from the joint chairman of the joint chief of staff, they obviously still have to get full intelligence from the site – and this will take some time. So they don’t know whether it has been a huge success. But what it does do is send a real message.

And if there was one irony throughout that 30-minute news conference, it was that several times they talked about how it was important to keep the circle of knowledge very tight.

Of course, when there was an attack in Yemen earlier this year, Pete Hegseth not only included a journalist on the talks about what was going to happen, he also included his wife – so the idea that the security is much tighter. perhaps that really was a lesson to be learned for the defence secretary.

As Israel’s conflict with Iran rages, the Israeli military also continues deadly attacks on Gaza.

The Health Ministry said it registered the killing of at least 51 people in the past 24-hour reporting period, with another 104 wounded.

The latest figures bring the number of people killed in Israeli attacks since the start of Israel’s war in October 2023 to at least 55,959, with 131,242 others wounded.

Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, said attacks have been concentrated in southern Khan Younis, central Gaza, and northern Gaza City.

“The majority of people feel that Israel’s military has taken advantage of the distraction created by the rising escalation with Iran to continue carrying out more deadly attacks [in Gaza],” he said.

The US defense secretary says he still hopes Iran will return to the negotiating table, where “they know precisely what steps they can take” to meet US demands.

“I can only confirm that there are both public and private messages being delivered to the Iranians in multiple channels, giving them every opportunity to come to the table,” he told reporters.

The US and Iran had been engaged in nuclear talks before Israel launched a surprise strike on Iran – publicly backed by the US – earlier this month.

Hegseth also stressed that the scope of the US’s attacks was “intentionally limited – that’s the message we’re sending.” However, he said that the US military’s capabilities are “nearly unlimited”.

The chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff says an assessment of the destruction sustained at Iran’s nuclear facilities will take time to confirm.

“I think PDA [preliminary damage assessment] is still pending and it would be way too early for me to comment on what or what my not still be there,” General Dan Caine told reporters at the Pentagon.

He declined to comment on specific moves taken to protect US troops based in the Middle East from potential Iranian retaliation.

“Our joint force remains ready to defend the United States – our troops and our interests in the region,” said Caine.

Asked whether regime change in Iran is off the table as a US policy goal, Hegseth replied: “This mission was not, is not about regime change”.

He described the attack as a “precision operation to neutralise the threats to our national interests posed by the Iranian nuclear programme”.

As we’ve been reporting, a number of experts have disputed the US administration’s claims that Iran’s nuclear programme posed any threat to the US, while Iran has been insisting its programme is for civilian purposes.

US General Dan Caine, when asked whether Iran still retains some nuclear capacity after the attack, said it would be premature to comment before the damage assessment is complete.

“Initial battle damage assessments indicate that all three sites sustained extremely severe damage and destruction,” he had said earlier during his opening remarks.

President Emmanuel Macron will convene an emergency cabinet meeting to assess developments in the Middle East following US air strikes on Iran.

Macron has spoken with several leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and plans to hold additional discussions with European and regional leaders throughout the day, the French presidency said in a statement.

France is taking all necessary measures to expedite the evacuation of its citizens wishing to leave Iran and Israel, it added.

The British government and opposition parties are carefully treading a diplomatic tightrope following the dramatic US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasizing "stability in the Middle East" and a return to the negotiating table. The overnight attacks, which saw US President Donald Trump declare key Iranian nuclear sites "completely and fully obliterated," have sent shockwaves across the globe, escalating an already volatile situation.

Sir Keir Starmer, in his capacity as Prime Minister, has issued a statement that underscores the UK's immediate priorities: de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution. His call for Iran to "return to the negotiating table" to "reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis" highlights a clear desire to prevent further military confrontation. This stance reflects a consistent theme from the Labour government, which, through the Foreign Secretary David Lammy, had reportedly been pushing for diplomatic solutions over military action in the days leading up to the US strikes.

Starmer's statement also acknowledged the US action, stating that Iran's nuclear programme is a "grave threat" and that the US "has taken action to alleviate that threat." This indicates a degree of understanding, if not outright endorsement, of the US's rationale for the strikes, while simultaneously urging a shift back to diplomacy. It is understood there was no UK involvement in the US strikes, signaling a nuanced position that supports the strategic aim of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons without directly participating in the military escalation.

The reaction from other political parties further illustrates the complexities of the situation. While the immediate focus remains on the government's response, the Green Party has sharply condemned the US attacks, with co-leader Adrian Ramsay MP stating that they "utterly condemn the reckless attacks on Iran by the United States that can only lead to further dangerous conflict." Ramsay also criticized Prime Minister Starmer for "shamefully decid[ing] to echo the rhetoric of Trump and Netanyahu," accusing him of "gaslighting" over an imminent nuclear threat. This highlights a clear divergence within the political landscape, with some voices demanding a stronger condemnation of unilateral military action and a clearer adherence to international law.

Conversely, some voices, notably from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, have backed Trump's decision, stating that "Iran must not be allowed to have nuclear weapons, the future of Israel depends on it." This aligns with a more hawkish stance that prioritizes regional security through assertive military action.

The immediate challenge for the UK government, and indeed for the international community, is to manage the fallout from these strikes and prevent a wider regional conflict. Starmer's emphasis on stability and diplomacy will likely be the guiding principle for the UK's foreign policy in the coming days and weeks. However, the diverse reactions from political parties underscore the profound divisions and heightened stakes involved, reflecting the deep uncertainty over the path forward in a dramatically altered Middle East landscape. The question remains whether diplomatic efforts can regain traction in the wake of such a significant military intervention.

Turkiye’s Foreign Ministry has expressed serious concern about the repercussions of the US attack on Iran’s nuclear sites, warning it has caused the risk of escalation to spike.

In a statement cited by Turkiye’s Anadolu news agency, the ministry said only negotiations could resolve the nuclear dispute and called on all parties to act responsibly.

It was not clear whether the US will continue attacking Iran alongside its ally Israel, which has been engaged in a war with Iran for nine days. Countries around the globe are calling for diplomacy and no further escalation.

Iran, however, has vowed to respond.

High-quality satellite images taken on June 19 and June 20 show highlighted unusual activity involving trucks and vehicles near the entrance to the underground fuel enrichment facility at Fordow.

The images captured by Maxar show a group of 16 cargo trucks positioned along the access road leading to the tunnel entrance of the facility. The majority of these trucks were later relocated roughly 1km (0.6 miles) northwest of the road leading to the facility.

The visuals also depict additional trucks and several bulldozers near the site’s main entrance, including one truck positioned directly adjacent to the primary tunnel entrance.

Safe Airspace, a website run by OPSGROUP, a membership-based organisation that shares flight risk information, says the US attacks on Iran may increase risks to American operators in the region.

“While there have been no specific threats made against civil aviation, Iran has previously warned it would retaliate by attacking US military interests in the Middle East – either directly or via proxies such as Hezbollah,” Safe Airspace said.

Safe Airspace said it’s possible airspace risks could now extend to countries including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

“We continue to advise a high degree of caution at this time,” it said.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) says “the criminal American regime” has not learned the lessons of past Middle East wars and will suffer the consequences after bombing Iran.

“The US’s repetition of past failed follies demonstrates strategic incompetence and disregard for the realities on the ground in the region,” the IRGC said in a statement.

“Instead of learning from repeated failures, Washington has effectively placed itself on the front lines of aggression by directly attacking peaceful [nuclear] installations.”

The paramilitary force said the flight locations of the US aircraft that participated in the attack “have been identified and monitored”.

“The number, dispersion, and size of US military bases in the region are not a strength but have doubled their vulnerability,” the Revolutionary Guard warned.

European Council President Antonio Costa has urged “respect for international law and nuclear safety” following the US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.

“Diplomacy remains the only way to bring peace and security to the Middle East region. Too many civilians will once again be the victims of a further escalation,” he said, adding that he is alarmed by the latest developments.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said ” stability must be the priority” and called for “Iran to engage in a credible diplomatic solution”.

“The negotiating table is the only place to end this crisis,” she said.

Germany‘s Chancellor Merz, meanwhile, called on Iran to immediately re-enter nuclear talks with the US so there can be a diplomatic solution, according to a German government spokesperson.

As we previously reported, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asked in a social media post a short while ago, “How can Iran return to something it never left, let alone blew up?”

The direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran, now in its second week, marks a dangerous escalation in regional dynamics. What began as Israeli strikes aimed at thwarting Iran's nuclear program has rapidly spiraled into a tit-for-tat exchange of missiles and drones, raising grave concerns across the globe. As of today, Iran reports over 400 fatalities, while Israel confirms 24 deaths, primarily from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. The international community, led by the US, is scrambling for a diplomatic off-ramp, but the prospect of a wider, more devastating conflict remains disturbingly high.

Current Situation:

Israel continues its campaign targeting Iranian air defenses, missile forces, and, critically, nuclear facilities. Reports indicate significant damage to centrifuge production capabilities, a key component for uranium enrichment. Israel also claims to have eliminated several senior IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) Aerospace Force and Quds Force officers, potentially disrupting Iranian command and control.

Iran has responded with multiple waves of ballistic missile and drone attacks, striking various sites across Israel, including populated areas in Tel Aviv and Beersheba, and notably causing damage to at least one hospital. While Israeli air defenses have intercepted the majority of projectiles, some have impacted their targets. Iran's state media also reported a cyberattack by Israel on its state TV.

US President Donald Trump is currently weighing direct military intervention, with a decision expected within the next two weeks. This adds a crucial and potentially explosive dimension to the conflict, as Iranian-aligned groups like Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah have warned of severe consequences if the US joins the fray.

Despite the escalating violence, some diplomatic channels remain open. Iran's foreign minister is reportedly meeting with European diplomats in Geneva, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged de-escalation and called for adherence to international law. However, Iran has stated it will not negotiate over its nuclear program while under threat.

Potential Outcomes:

The path forward is fraught with danger, and analysts are outlining several grim scenarios. A controlled confrontation, without direct US involvement, remains the most likely immediate outcome, though highly risky. This would see a continued exchange of attacks, potentially for weeks or months, with both sides seeking to degrade capabilities. The danger of broader conflict with US intervention looms large, especially if US military assets are attacked or energy supplies are threatened, which would dramatically escalate the conflict with severe consequences for global markets and stability.

A prolonged and intense conflict would undoubtedly lead to a significant humanitarian crisis, increased refugee flows, and further destabilization of an already volatile Middle East. Critically, should Iran conclude that conventional deterrence has failed, it might accelerate its pursuit of a nuclear weapon, a perceived existential threat that could push Iran to cross the nuclear threshold. The conflict is already impacting global markets, with oil prices rising and inflation fears growing. A sustained conflict, particularly one that disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, could lead to a major inflationary shock and slower global economic growth. Ultimately, the conflict could lead to unforeseen consequences and regional power shifts, including the rise of new non-state actors, shifts in regional alliances, and a potential power vacuum.

The escalating Israel-Iran conflict represents a critical juncture for the Middle East and the wider world. While diplomatic efforts are underway, the current trajectory points towards further escalation with potentially catastrophic outcomes. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining whether this dangerous confrontation can be de-escalated or if it spirals into a wider regional conflagration with global ramifications.

Middle East on Brink: Israel-Iran War Looms, Global Impact Feared

The direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran has entered its second week, marking a dangerous escalation in regional dynamics. What began as Israeli strikes aimed at thwarting Iran's nuclear program has rapidly spiraled into a tit-for-tat exchange of missiles and drones, raising grave concerns across the globe. As of today, Iran reports over 400 fatalities, while Israel confirms 24 deaths, primarily from Iranian ballistic missile attacks. The international community, led by the US, is scrambling for a diplomatic off-ramp, but the prospect of a wider, more devastating conflict remains disturbingly high.

Current Situation:

Israel continues its campaign targeting Iranian air defenses, missile forces, and, critically, nuclear facilities. Reports indicate significant damage to centrifuge production capabilities. Israel also claims to have eliminated several senior IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) officers, disrupting Iranian command and control. Iran has responded with multiple waves of ballistic missile and drone attacks, striking various sites across Israel, including populated areas and notably causing damage to at least one hospital. While Israeli air defenses have intercepted the majority of projectiles, some have impacted their targets. Iran's state media also reported a cyberattack by Israel on its state TV.

US President Donald Trump is currently weighing direct military intervention, with a decision expected within the next two weeks. This adds a crucial and potentially explosive dimension, as Iranian-aligned groups have warned of severe consequences if the US joins the fray. Despite the escalating violence, some diplomatic channels remain open. Iran's foreign minister is reportedly meeting with European diplomats in Geneva, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged de-escalation. However, Iran has stated it will not negotiate over its nuclear program while under threat.

Potential Outcomes:

The path forward is fraught with danger. A controlled confrontation, without direct US involvement, remains the most likely immediate outcome, though highly risky. This would see a continued exchange of attacks, potentially for weeks or months, with both sides seeking to degrade capabilities. The danger of broader conflict with US intervention looms large, especially if US military assets are attacked or energy supplies are threatened, which would dramatically escalate the conflict with severe consequences for global markets and stability.

A prolonged and intense conflict would undoubtedly lead to a significant humanitarian crisis, increased refugee flows, and further destabilization of an already volatile Middle East. Critically, should Iran conclude that conventional deterrence has failed, it might accelerate its pursuit of a nuclear weapon, a perceived existential threat that could push Iran to cross the nuclear threshold. The conflict is already impacting global markets, with oil prices rising and inflation fears growing. A sustained conflict, particularly one that disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, could lead to a major inflationary shock and slower global economic growth. Ultimately, the conflict could lead to unforeseen consequences and regional power shifts, including the rise of new non-state actors, shifts in regional alliances, and a potential power vacuum.

The escalating Israel-Iran conflict represents a critical juncture for the Middle East and the wider world. While diplomatic efforts are underway, the current trajectory points towards further escalation with potentially catastrophic outcomes. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining whether this dangerous confrontation can be de-escalated or if it spirals into a wider regional conflagration with global ramifications.

In response to a question about a potential Turkish mediation to end hostilities, the Iranian foreign minister said he had “very productive meetings” with Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

“I also had conversations with [diplomats of] other countries in the region. Some of the countries … such as Turkey are indicating they could mediate so attacks from Israel can stop,” he told reporters.

“I do believe that I’m going to start some actions and discussions … to prevent this American aggression.”

The Iranian foreign minister says he will fly to Moscow today and have a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday.

“Russia is a friend of Iran and we enjoy a strategic partnership,” he told the news conference in Istanbul.

“We always consult with each other and coordinate our positions,” Araghchi said, noting that Russia was one of the signatories of the JCPOA.

“I will have serious consultations with the Russian president tomorrow and we continue to work with each other.”

The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, now involving direct US military action, is sending clear and concerning economic and geopolitical tremors across the globe, with the United Kingdom, Europe, and Bangladesh already feeling the visible impacts. From soaring energy costs to disrupted trade routes, the conflict's reach is extending far beyond the Middle East.

United Kingdom: Cost-of-Living Crisis Worsens, Fuel Prices Jump

For the average Briton, the most immediate and painful impact is at the petrol pump. Global oil prices, specifically Brent crude, have seen significant jumps since Israel's initial airstrikes on June 13th and the subsequent US involvement. This surge is directly translated into higher fuel costs for motorists, placing renewed strain on household budgets already squeezed by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Energy bills are also under threat, with wholesale natural gas prices increasing. While the UK is less reliant on Middle Eastern energy directly, global market fluctuations inevitably affect domestic prices. Analysts warn that these higher energy costs will likely feed into broader inflation across the economy, from food production to manufacturing, as businesses pass on increased expenses to consumers. The UK government is facing fresh challenges as it tries to curb inflation, with these new energy price shocks complicating the outlook for interest rate decisions.

Adding to the concerns, the UK government has advised against all travel to Israel, impacting travel plans and the tourism sector. Furthermore, security around Jewish communities and Israeli diplomatic sites in the UK has been heightened following intelligence assessments of potential threats, underscoring the conflict's global security ramifications.

Europe: Energy Security Jitters and Trade Route Headaches

Europe, still navigating the aftermath of the energy crisis sparked by the Russia-Ukraine war, is facing renewed energy security concerns. The escalating conflict in the Middle East has prompted sharp increases in European jet fuel and diesel values, highlighting fears of supply tightness. While not yet a full-blown crisis, any sustained disruption to vital shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz could lead to severe spikes in energy prices across the continent, directly impacting industries and consumers.

The already challenged global shipping industry is seeing further disruptions. The Red Sea, a crucial chokepoint, has been largely abandoned by container and tanker traffic, forcing vessels to take significantly longer and more expensive routes around the Cape of Good Hope. If the Strait of Hormuz were to see similar disruptions, it would severely exacerbate these issues, causing further delays, increasing freight costs (some reporting 3-4 times higher), and potentially leading to port congestion across Europe. This directly impacts the flow of goods and could fuel further inflationary pressures on imported products.

Bangladesh: Triple Whammy of Inflation, Remittance Risks, and Export Challenges

For Bangladesh, a developing nation heavily reliant on imports and remittances, the conflict presents a severe economic threat.

Soaring Import Bills and Inflation: Bangladesh imports most of its crude oil, predominantly from Gulf states. The global surge in oil prices translates directly into cripplingly higher import bills, straining Bangladesh's already stretched foreign reserves. This directly feeds into domestic inflation, pushing up the cost of essential goods and services for the populace. Industries, especially the energy-intensive ready-made garment (RMG) sector, face significantly increased operational costs.

Remittance Concerns: A substantial portion of Bangladesh's foreign currency earnings comes from the remittances sent by millions of migrant workers in the Middle East. Increased instability or economic downturns in the Gulf could lead to job losses, wage cuts, or even mass repatriations of these workers, devastating thousands of Bangladeshi families and further depleting national foreign exchange reserves.

Export Headwinds: Bangladesh's vital RMG sector, which accounts for over 80% of its export earnings, is facing significant challenges. Disruptions to shipping routes, such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal, mean longer transit times and higher shipping costs for goods destined for European and American markets. This erodes profit margins and threatens Bangladesh's reputation for timely delivery, potentially leading to a decline in export volumes.

The visible impacts are a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of the global economy. As the Israel-Iran war continues to unfold, its economic and geopolitical ripple effects are set to intensify, posing significant challenges for governments and citizens worldwide.

The Iranian foreign minister says Trump has betrayed not only Iran but his own supporters as result of today’s US attacks.

“While President Trump was elected on a platform of putting an end to America’s costly involvement in ‘forever wars’, in our part of the world, he has betrayed not only Iran by abusing our commitment to diplomacy but also deceived his own voters,” he said.

Asked whether there is still room for diplomacy after the US attack, Araghchi said “not right now”.

“The door for diplomacy should always stay open, but this is not the case right now,” he said. “My country has been under attack, under aggression, and we have to respond based on our legitimate right to self defence.”

The US attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, he said, “is an unforgivable violation of international law”.

We now have more from Araghchi’s speech in Istanbul.

The Iranian foreign minister says the “warmongering and lawless” US administration in Washington will be “solely and fully responsible for the dangerous consequences and for reaching implement implications of its act of aggression”.

“The US military attack on the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of a UN member state carried out in collision with the genocidal [Israeli]regime, as once again revealed the extent of the United States hostility towards the peace seeking people of Iran,” he added.

The Iranian foreign minister has condemned the US’s “brutal military aggression” against what he described as Iran’s peaceful nuclear programme.

“It is an outrageous, grave and unprecedented violation of the fundamental principles of the charter of the United Nations and international law,” Abbas Araghchi said during his speech in Istanbul at the OIC summit.

At least 27 people in Israel have been wounded after Iran launched 40 missiles at the country in response to US-Israeli attacks.

One of the bombing targets was the Ramat Aviv area of Tel Aviv, with missiles tearing holes in the facades of apartment blocks.

“Houses here were hit very, very badly,” said Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai. “Fortunately, one of them was slated for demolition and reconstruction so there were no residents inside.”

He added: “Those who were in the shelters are all safe and well. The damage is very, very extensive, but in terms of human life we are okay.”

Damaged buildings and vehicles after Iran missile strikes on Israel [Jack Guez/AFP]

The dramatic escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict into direct US military intervention has raised urgent questions about who is truly "behind" this rapidly unfolding war and what their ultimate objectives are. While President Donald Trump has overtly claimed responsibility for US airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, praising their "spectacular military success," the role of other global players, notably Russia's Vladimir Putin, remains a complex and concerning factor.

Trump's Direct Intervention and Strategic Calculus:

President Trump has made it clear he ordered the US strikes on Iran's Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities, stating they "obliterated" Iran's nuclear program and calling on the "bully of the Middle East" to "make peace." This direct military action comes after weeks of intense Israeli airstrikes and subsequent Iranian retaliation. Trump's decision was reportedly made at the "prodding of Israeli officials and many Republican lawmakers," suggesting a strong alignment with Israel's long-standing goal of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Despite his past rhetoric about avoiding "stupid wars" and initial efforts at diplomacy, Trump ultimately made the calculation that Israel's initial operations had "softened the ground" for a decisive blow to Iran's nuclear ambitions. This move has been met with both strong support from his base and criticism from those who fear it will drag the US into a broader regional conflict, potentially leading to a "forever war."

Putin's Stance and Russian Interests:

While Donald Trump is directly initiating the US military action, Vladimir Putin's role is more nuanced. Russia maintains close ties with Iran, including military cooperation (Tehran supplied Moscow with drones for the war in Ukraine and has received assistance with its civilian nuclear program). However, Russia also has existing relations with Israel.

Moscow has repeatedly offered to mediate in the Israel-Iran conflict, but Trump has publicly scoffed at these offers, telling Putin to "mediate Russia first" in reference to the war in Ukraine. This highlights the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between the US and Russia, where the Middle East serves as another arena for their competing interests.

Putin's primary concern appears to be the broader regional instability. His spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has warned that the Middle East is plunging into "an abyss of instability and war." Russia's energy interests are also at play; a major disruption to global oil supplies would undoubtedly impact the Russian economy, which heavily relies on energy exports. While Russia might quietly offer diplomatic backing to Iran, it is unlikely to directly intervene militarily against the US or Israel, given its current entanglement in Ukraine.

Who is "Behind" the War? A Multifaceted Reality:

It's an oversimplification to pinpoint one individual as "behind" this complex conflict. Instead, it's a confluence of factors and actors:

Israel's Security Concerns: Israel's long-held determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a primary driver. The initial Israeli strikes were a clear manifestation of this existential threat perception.

Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Regional Influence: Iran's pursuit of a nuclear program, even if declared peaceful, is viewed with deep suspicion by Israel and the West. Iran's broader regional influence through proxy groups also fuels the conflict.

US Policy Shift: Donald Trump's decision to directly engage militarily marks a significant shift in US policy, moving from deterrence and sanctions to overt military intervention. This decision reflects a strong alignment with Israeli objectives and a desire to dismantle Iran's nuclear capabilities.

Geopolitical Rivalries: The broader geopolitical landscape, including the US-Russia rivalry and the ongoing war in Ukraine, influences the dynamics of the Middle East conflict. While Putin warns of instability, he may also see opportunities to exert influence or divert attention.

Internal Pressures: Both Israeli and US leaders face internal political pressures that can influence their decisions regarding foreign policy and military action.

In essence, the war is a tragic outcome of long-standing tensions, escalating actions, and the calculated decisions of multiple powerful actors, with Donald Trump's recent direct intervention serving as a critical turning point. The question now is not just who is "behind" it, but where these escalating actions will lead the world.

The simmering tensions between Israel and Iran have erupted into a direct military confrontation, drawing in the United States and sending shockwaves across the globe. In a significant escalation, the US has reportedly carried out strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan), a move praised by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and condemned by Iran. This follows a week of intense Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, top generals, and scientists, which Iran has retaliated against with missile and drone attacks on Israel.

Escalation and Direct Confrontation:

The conflict, which began on June 13th with Israeli airstrikes, has rapidly escalated from a "grey zone" or proxy war to direct military engagement. The US intervention marks a critical turning point, transforming a regional rivalry into a potential wider conflict involving major global powers. Donald Trump's stated involvement and "spectacular military success" claim underscore the gravity of the situation. While Israel has reported success in intercepting most Iranian projectiles, some have impacted Israeli soil, causing casualties. Similarly, Iranian reports indicate significant casualties and damage to their infrastructure from Israeli and now US strikes.

Impact on Iran's Nuclear Program:

The primary stated objective of the Israeli (and now US) strikes is to "degrade, destroy, and remove the threat" of Iran's nuclear weaponization program. While the full extent of the damage to Iran's nuclear facilities is yet to be fully assessed, reports suggest that some highly enriched uranium at the Fordow facility may have been moved before the attack. The long-term impact on Iran's nuclear capabilities remains uncertain, but it is clear that these strikes aim to set back their program significantly. Iran, for its part, has warned of "everlasting consequences" for these "outrageous" attacks on its "peaceful nuclear installations."

Regional Instability and Alliances:

The conflict is deeply destabilizing for the entire Middle East. Arab foreign ministers have convened emergency meetings to discuss the regional repercussions, with Iraq's Foreign Minister warning that the danger extends beyond Iran to the entire region. The intensification of the Israel-Iran conflict also impacts other ongoing regional conflicts, notably the war in Gaza, which continues to rage with devastating humanitarian consequences. The complex web of alliances and rivalries in the Middle East means that any further escalation could draw in other regional actors, potentially leading to a broader regional war. Iran's potential responses could include targeting the Strait of Hormuz, attacking US bases and allies, or activating its regional proxies.

Global Economic Repercussions:

The most immediate and tangible global impact is on energy markets. Oil prices have surged, and natural gas prices have increased significantly since the conflict began. There are serious concerns about potential disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transit. A sustained blockade or attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region could lead to a severe global energy crisis, pushing oil prices well over $100 per barrel and triggering hyperinflationary pressures worldwide. This would severely impact global supply chains, increase shipping insurance premiums, and potentially lead to a significant cost-of-living crisis and a global recession or even depression. Financial markets have already shown volatility, with global stock markets dipping and safe-haven assets like gold seeing increased demand.

Geopolitical Landscape and Diplomacy:

The conflict has further complicated an already strained global geopolitical outlook. The US intervention, while aligned with Israel's objectives, has shut down avenues for diplomatic solutions that European powers were attempting to pursue. Britain's Foreign Secretary has noted the "perilous" situation and the need for a diplomatic solution, but the window for such a resolution appears to be rapidly closing. The division among European powers on how to approach the conflict further hinders coordinated international efforts. The longer the conflict persists, the more entrenched positions will become, making de-escalation increasingly challenging. The potential for miscalculation or unintended consequences remains extremely high, posing a significant threat to international peace and security.

The United States reportedly used B-2 stealth bombers in its strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. So what is the B-2 and what can it do?

The B-2 Spirit is a long-range heavy stealth bomber capable of carrying tens of thousands of pounds of bombs – including nuclear weapons – while evading the world’s most advanced air defences. Each B-2 is estimated to cost more than $2bn.

It’s the primary aircraft designed to deliver the US military’s most powerful bunker-busting bomb, the 30,000-pound (13,600-kg) GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator.

The B-2 and its payload are considered the most effective US option against Iran’s underground Fordow nuclear facility, one of the targets of last night’s strikes.

The New York Times reported the B-2s used in the attack “flew non-stop for about 37 hours” from a  base in Missouri and refuelled several times in mid-air.

Fox News host Sean Hannity says he spoke with Trump shortly after the US attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites and reports that American forces used “six huge bunker buster bombs” in the hit on the Fordow facility.

The bombs, he said, were dropped by the US B-52 bomber aircrafts.

Hannity also said that Iran’s Natanz and Isfahan nuclear sites “were wiped out with 30 Tomahawk missiles launched by American submarines some 400 miles away”.

Iranian officials say the facilities were evacuated prior to the US attacks, with one legislator saying the damage at Fordow is not serious.

Mehran Kamrava, a professor of government at Georgetown University in Qatar, says it’s unclear how Iran will react after the US strikes overnight.

“This region is riddled with American bases, there are in excess of 40,000 American soldiers. I once heard an Iranian commander say, ‘that means there are 40,000 targets we can hit’,” Kamrava told Al Jazeera.

So would the Iranians go after US bases in the Middle East? And if so, would they do so in a “measured” way such as the retaliatory strikes in response to the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, he asked.

“I think that all remains to be seen, but nevertheless Iranians will have to retaliate. Politically they cannot simply sit quiet and take this the way Trump wants them to,” said Kamrava.

Oman, which had helped mediate recent nuclear talks between the US and Iran, said it denounced “this unlawful act of aggression” and urged “immediate and comprehensive de-escalation”.

The official Oman News Agency quoted a Foreign Ministry spokesperson as saying the sultanate was “profoundly concerned” and warned that the US action risks widening the conflict and constitutes a “flagrant violation” of international law and the United Nations Charter.

Qatar, meanwhile, said dangerous tensions following the US attacks would lead to “catastrophic repercussions” on both regional and international levels.

In a statement, the Gulf state’s Foreign Ministry deplored the “deterioration” to the status quo after the US strikes and emphasised the necessity to stop all military operations and immediately return to dialogue and diplomatic channels to resolve outstanding issues.

For its part, Iraq expressed its deep concern and condemnation of the targeting of Iran’s nuclear facilities and said the military escalation posed a serious threat to regional peace and security.

Iran is calling for an investigation into the US strikes on its nuclear facilities.

That’s according to a letter from the country’s nuclear chief Mohammad Eslami to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi, Iran’s SNN news network reported.

Eslami urged Grossi to condemn the US action and take appropriate measures. He criticised Grossi for his “inaction and complicity”, adding Iran will pursue “appropriate legal measures”.

“This letter expresses its protest against the gross violation of international laws and regulations, especially the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty [NPT],” it said.

Earlier, Grossi said he’s calling an emergency meeting of the IAEA’s 35-nation board of governors following the US air strikes.

Iran has the legal right to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) – based on its Article 10 – following US strikes on three nuclear facilities, Parliament Foreign Policy Committee Head Abbas Golroo says.

Article 10 states an NPT member has “the right to withdraw from the Treaty if it decides that extraordinary events have jeopardized the supreme interests of its country”.

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is a landmark international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

It was opened for signature on July 1, 1968, and entered into force on March 5, 1970. The treaty was negotiated by the US, Soviet Union and Britain.

We’ve been speaking to Foad Izadi, a professor in the World Studies department at the University of Tehran.

He says Iranians are “continuing to be shocked” at the escalating conflict as Trump had been speaking positively about the nuclear talks with Iran up till the start of the Israeli attacks.

“We now know that was a deception operation. Today, Trump, in his statement, said that United States and Israel are working as a team, and the people in Iran now realise that this process that they thought would result in a diplomatic solution has instead resulted in a major war, with hundreds of civilian casualties and damage to Iranian infrastructure,” Izadi told Al Jazeera from Tehran.

Iranians also fear Israel’s ultimate aim “is not only the change of the Iranian government, but also the break up of Iran”, he said.

“The Israelis have been advocating the balkanization of Iran, taking the oil rich sections of Iran out, and sort of supporting a policy that would result in Iran being divided in three or four countries. The US generally opposed that idea for different reasons, but it seems the US policy towards Middle East has been taken over by Israel, and Trump is just following Netanyahu’s lead, and he’s doing what Netanyahu is asking him to do, including this issue of the breakup of Iran,” Izadi said.

These fears are now leading to a “rally around the flag” effect in Iran, he added.

Stephen Zunes, head of Middle Eastern studies at the University of San Francisco, dismissed the notion that Iran poses any real threat to the United States as “completely absurd.”

“Iran lacks the missile range or military capacity to strike the US,” he told Al Jazeera.

Zunes further argued that if the concern were genuinely about Iran’s nuclear programme potentially being weaponized, then former President Trump wouldn’t have withdrawn from the 2015 nuclear agreement.

He believes the motivation behind the attacks has little to do with any direct threat from Iran and more to do with the country’s potential to counterbalance US influence in the region.

When asked why Trump chose to attack Iran at this point, Zunes speculated that “he’s probably been eager to start a conflict with Iran for a while now.”

Although this move contradicts Trump’s original campaign promises, Zunes noted it’s not entirely unexpected, pointing out that Trump has reversed course on many pledges—both in domestic and foreign policy.

Israeli political analyst Akiva Eldar says Prime Minister Netanyahu’s strikes on Iran could bolster his popularity, even as he faces continued scrutiny over corruption charges and security failures on October 7, 2023.

“What we see right now is that we are not looking at Gaza. We are not thinking of hoping to get back the Israeli captives, there are 20 or 22 people still alive and Netanyahu never took responsibility for that. Now, as we see in the polls and in the public mood, Netanyahu is the greatest hero in history,” Eldar told Al Jazeera.

“It seems he’s going to accomplish his ‘mission from God’, which is to destroy the ‘post-modern Nazis’ as he calls Iran. And if there were elections today, we can forget about his corruption trial, forget about the failure of October 7,” he added.

It’s the middle of the night here in the United States and most people are not aware of the US attack on Iran’s nuclear sites.

So far, congressional reaction has split largely along party lines: Democrats are calling the strikes illegal under the 1973 War Powers Act. They’re also in some cases calling for the president’s impeachment.

Republicans for the most part are supportive, but there are a couple of notable Republicans – such as Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky and Congressman Thomas Massie – who have condemned the air strikes.

Massie is trying to push for a resolution that would prevent the Trump administration from continuing further attacks on Iran. But as of right now, the Republican-controlled Congress does not appear to be allowing that resolution to come to the floor for a vote in either the Senate or the House.

Trita Parsi, the executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, says it is likely that Iran had taken precautionary actions ahead of the US attacks.

“It appears that they already had gotten an advanced warning – but I think also even short of that, when Trump said that he is going to make a decision within two weeks, I don’t think the Iranians took that seriously,” he told Al Jazeera.

“They understood that he was trying to buy time while moving military assets in order to actually strike. So I think for some time they have moved those assets – where they are is unclear at this point.”

Parsi said Iran’s most valuable nuclear asset is its stockpile of enriched uranium.

“As long as they continue to have that, they still actually have very much a nuclear programme that still could be weaponised,” he added.

“And I think we are going to start hearing from the Israelis in rather short order that this was not the type of successful strike Trump has claimed, but they are going to start making the case that there needs to be a more ongoing bombing campaign against Iran.”

We are not entirely certain whether this latest round of Iranian missile launches targeting Israeli territories is intended as a direct response to the recent American strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, or if it is a continuation of Iran’s retaliation against ongoing Israeli attacks.

This is important to keep in mind in light of the recent statement from the IRGC, in which they said the twentieth wave of Iranian missile attacks on Israeli territories began just a few hours ago.

They also indicated they are now deploying one of their most advanced missiles, the Kheybar-Shekan, as part of their retaliatory measures, as Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian nuclear facilities, military sites and residential buildings.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong condemnation of the US attacks. They asserted these strikes took place while Iran was in the middle of diplomatic negotiations.

We have a statement from International Atomic Energy Agency Director-General Rafael Grossi.

“In light of the urgent situation in Iran, I am convening an emergency meeting” of the IAEA Board of Governors for Monday, he wrote on social media.

We have a statement from Saudi Arabia following the US air attacks on nuclear sites in Iran.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is following with deep concern the developments in the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities by the United States of America,” the kingdom’s Foreign Ministry said.

The statement also highlighted the need to “exercise restraint”, reduce tensions, and prevent further escalation, urging the international community to step up efforts towards reaching a “political solution”.