Israel Launches Preemptive Strikes, Declares State Emergency Amid Iran Tensions

Israel launched preemptive airstrikes on multiple Iranian nuclear and military targets, including sites in Tehran, in a significant escalation of conflict in the Middle East. The Israeli government declared a state of emergency, warning its citizens to prepare for retaliatory missile and drone attacks from Iran, which is expected to strike Israeli civilian areas imminently. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the severity of the situation, urging compliance with safety instructions as the operation, dubbed "Nation of Lions," targets Iran's nuclear program to prevent further nuclear development. The United States, under President Trump, officially stated it was not involved in the strikes but warned Iran against retaliating against U.S. personnel or interests in the region. The strikes follow stalled negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program and come amid ongoing regional tensions, including Israeli military actions in Gaza. The international community watches closely as this conflict risks a broader regional war with significant global economic repercussions.