Israel and Iran are in an escalating conflict that has taken a dangerous turn. On Thursday, Iranian missiles struck a hospital in southern Israel and residential areas near Tel Aviv, injuring at least 240 people. This attack prompted Israel to launch airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, including a heavily fortified site known as Fordo.
U.S. President Donald Trump is currently weighing whether to involve the U.S. military directly in the conflict. He stated he would make a decision within two weeks, keeping the option for diplomatic talks with Iran regarding its nuclear program open. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed Trump’s cautious approach, emphasizing the potential for negotiations with Iran.
The situation intensified earlier in the week when Israel conducted surprise airstrikes on Iranian military targets, resulting in significant casualties. Reports indicate that over 639 people have died in Iran, including 263 civilians, while retaliatory strikes from Iran have resulted in at least 24 deaths in Israel. Iranian forces have launched around 450 missiles and 1,000 drones at Israel, with Israeli defenses intercepting most of them.
Amid this turmoil, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a direct threat to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating that military actions would continue until Khamenei is removed from power. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence in Trump’s judgment, stating that U.S. support has been crucial during this crisis.
The conflict has forced Israeli hospitals, including the Soroka Medical Center, to implement emergency protocols, moving patients underground for safety. The missile strike on the hospital caused injuries to at least 80 patients and staff, though most were lightly wounded due to prior evacuations.
Iranian officials have denied targeting the hospital, claiming the missiles were aimed at a nearby military facility. However, no specific intelligence has indicated that the hospital was a planned target. This incident highlights the chaotic nature of the conflict and the risks posed to civilians.
As the fighting continues, Iran has rejected calls from the U.S. to surrender or halt its nuclear ambitions. The Iranian regime maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful, despite enriching uranium to levels close to weapons-grade. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its air campaign, targeting key Iranian military sites to diminish their operational capabilities.
The ongoing conflict raises significant concerns about regional stability and the potential for broader military involvement. With diplomatic channels still open, the next couple of weeks will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be found or if the conflict will escalate further.