President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, declaring that any attack against the United States would result in military retaliation “at levels never seen before.” This warning comes amid a wave of missile exchanges between Iran and Israel, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Overnight, Israeli sirens rang out in response to strikes believed to be launched from Iranian and Yemeni territories. According to reports from Israel’s health ministry, the death toll in the country has tragically risen to 15, with 385 individuals treated for injuries sustained during the attacks. Among the injured, seven remain in serious condition, while 40 are classified as moderately hurt, and 298 suffered minor injuries. Additionally, 14 others exhibited signs of anxiety following the airstrikes.
On the Iranian side, health minister reports suggest that a majority of the casualties are civilians, including women and children. Although exact figures remain undisclosed, official statements indicated that dozens have succumbed to injuries from Israeli strikes, especially after a devastating missile strike in Tehran that demolished a 14-storey residential building.
Amidst the rising violence, Israel has received a warning from its defence officials, urging civilians near military weapons production facilities in Iran to evacuate immediately. The spokesperson highlighted the critical importance of civilian safety in light of the ongoing military operations.
In Haifa, an Israeli oil refinery has also reportedly sustained “localised” damage from Iranian missile strikes, leading to temporary shutdowns at some facilities. Thankfully, the company confirmed that there were no casualties from the incident.
As the conflict unfolds, both nations are on edge. Iran has accused Israel of initiating the violence under the pretext of national defence, while the Israeli government has declared a mission to eliminate perceived threats from Iranian aggressions in the region. Notably, Iran’s foreign minister accused the U.S. of facilitating Israeli actions, asserting that the strikes would not have occurred without American support.
The international community is closely monitoring these developments. Germany, in collaboration with France and the UK, has expressed readiness to engage in immediate negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear programme, aiming to de-escalate the situation. “We hope that this offer from Europe will be accepted,” said Germany’s foreign minister, stressing its importance in mediating further conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, both countries remain entrenched in their positions, with the possibility of further violence looming. The global community watches with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to a conflict that has historically wreaked havoc on regional stability.