(Image source from: REUTERS)
The situation in the Middle East is precariously on the verge of escalating into a larger conflict following Israel's initiation of what they termed "pre-emptive strikes" against critical Iranian military and nuclear installations. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that they had completed the "first phase" of their operation, deploying numerous Israeli Air Force aircraft to target various sites throughout Iran. Among the reported casualties were prominent figures, including Iran's military leader and several senior nuclear scientists. Additionally, Iranian state media indicated that civilian casualties, including women and children, occurred during attacks on residential neighborhoods in Tehran. Subsequently, Iran condemned the assault as a declaration of war and called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the airstrikes.
Key targets included the Natanz nuclear facility, which was reportedly hit with fresh explosions on Friday, exacerbating previous damage that left the site shrouded in smoke. In response to these airstrikes, Iran announced a nationwide state of emergency, with explosions noted in regions such as Kermanshah, Lorestan, and various areas of Tehran. Emergency personnel have been activated, and the Iranian military is on heightened alert amid increasing concerns of further escalation. In light of the circumstances, Iran has formally requested an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council to denounce the Israeli attacks on its nuclear sites and the deaths of high-ranking officials. Tehran urged the global community to act swiftly.
As tensions escalate, India has issued a warning to its citizens in Iran, advising them to exercise caution, limit non-essential travel, and stay informed through Embassy communications. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the United States was not involved in the Israeli strikes, distancing Washington from the ongoing military actions. Israel also announced the temporary closure of several embassies worldwide, including significant diplomatic offices in the United States and the United Kingdom. An official statement cited "recent developments" as the cause for these closures, but no specifics were provided regarding the nature of the threat or the duration of the shutdowns. Former President Donald Trump described Israel's strikes on Iran as "excellent" and suggested the possibility of additional military actions.
