Israel-Iran Strikes Kill Key Figures, Starmer Urges De-escalation

Israel launched a major airstrike operation involving over 200 jets targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and key military figures, including the killing of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander Hossein Salami and other nuclear scientists. In retaliation, Iran fired more than 100 drones into Israel, escalating tensions significantly in the Middle East. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called for urgent de-escalation, urging all parties to step back from the brink of war and emphasizing the need for stability and diplomacy in the region. Starmer's call for restraint was supported by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who highlighted the global security risks posed by further escalation. Iran’s Supreme Leader condemned the Israeli strikes as "evil and bloody," warning of severe retribution, while US officials distanced themselves from the attacks but warned Iran against retaliating against US interests. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that the operation would continue as long as necessary to neutralize the Iranian nuclear threat, underscoring the seriousness of the conflict.