Iran. and Israel conflicts 
The conflict between Iran and Israel has escalated significantly in the past week, with both sides conducting direct strikes and the United States becoming directly involved by bombing Iranian nuclear sites. Here's a summary of the latest developments:
Direct Strikes and Escalation:
* Israel's Strikes on Iran: Israel launched airstrikes on Iran starting around June 13, targeting nuclear and military sites, including a centrifuge manufacturing workshop in Isfahan province and other military installations in various cities. Israel has stated its goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and is prepared for a "prolonged campaign."
* Iran's Retaliation: Iran has retaliated with multiple waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel, with some missiles reportedly hitting central Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and the port city of Haifa, causing casualties and damage. Iranian media reported large explosions in cities like Bushehr (home to Iran's only operating nuclear plant) and Ahvaz.
* US Involvement: The United States, under President Donald Trump, has directly intervened, carrying out "very successful" attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. These strikes followed days of speculation about US involvement. Trump has warned of further strikes if Iran retaliates against the US.
International Reactions and Diplomacy:
* Calls for De-escalation: Many countries, including European nations, have called for immediate de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy. Arab foreign ministers held an emergency meeting in Istanbul to discuss the regional repercussions, and Germany urged Iran to enter immediate talks with the US and Israel.
* Concerns over Nuclear Infrastructure: Damage to Iran's nuclear infrastructure has been of "particular concern" to some international actors. The IAEA confirmed a centrifuge manufacturing workshop was hit but stated no nuclear material was at the site.
* EU's Red Sea Assessment: The EU's naval mission in the Red Sea has raised its assessment level to "severe" for ships with US and Israeli interests.
* China's Condemnation: China has strongly condemned the US strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, calling them an escalation of tensions and a violation of the UN charter.
* Russia's Engagement: Iran's Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet with Russia's President Putin for talks.
Impact and Outlook:
* Casualties: Iran's health ministry reports that Israeli strikes have killed at least 430 people and wounded approximately 3,500. In Israel, Iran's strikes have killed at least 25 people.
* "Prolonged Campaign" and "Unlimited Response": Israel's military chief spokesperson has stated the army is prepared for a "prolonged campaign," while a senior Iranian official warned that any move targeting Supreme Leader Khamenei would prompt an "unlimited" response.
* Internet Access in Iran: Internet access has been intermittent in Iran following the strikes, making it difficult to confirm the safety of citizens in affected areas.
* Strategic Shift: Some analysts suggest the current round of violence has further tilted the balance of power in the Middle East towards Israel, with Iran's "Axis of Resistance" weakened.
The situation remains highly volatile, with calls for diplomacy against a backdrop of ongoing military action and heightened rhetoric.
