Israel Strikes Iran, Conflict Escalates With Retaliation

Israel launched its largest-ever military operation against Iran, targeting nuclear sites, missile bases, and critical infrastructure in response to Iran’s accelerating nuclear program, which Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu called an 'immediate existential threat.' The strikes killed several high-ranking Iranian military leaders, including General Mohammad Bagheri, and significantly damaged Iran’s missile capabilities and air defenses. Iran retaliated with a barrage of around 100 ballistic missiles aimed at Israel, resulting in casualties but failing to achieve the scale Iran had threatened due to disruptions from Israeli attacks. The United States denied direct involvement but assisted in intercepting Iranian missiles with additional support from Saudi Arabia. Human rights activists, including Masih Alinejad, publicly celebrated the deaths of officials linked to domestic repression and regional aggression. As the conflict enters its third day, fears of broader escalation persist and both nations' populations remain on high alert.