Israel and Iran are in the midst of a serious conflict that escalated last week, with both sides exchanging strikes. President Donald Trump is considering whether the U.S. should get involved, as European officials meet with Iran’s foreign minister in Geneva to find a way to reduce tensions.
The first direct talks between Western and Iranian officials ended without progress after four hours. Trump has decided to delay a decision on U.S. military involvement for up to two weeks. If the U.S. does join, it may target Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility, which is heavily fortified.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will continue its military operations against Iran until it feels safe from what it sees as a nuclear threat. Israel’s military is prepared for a long campaign, according to its top general.
While talks in Switzerland showed some hope for future discussions, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran is not interested in negotiating with the U.S. while Israel continues its attacks. He emphasized that Iran would only consider diplomacy if the aggression stops and those responsible are held accountable.
On the ground, Israeli airstrikes have targeted military sites across Iran, including missile manufacturing facilities. In retaliation, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones into Israel, resulting in casualties on both sides. Reports indicate that at least 657 people have died in Iran, including 263 civilians, while over 2,000 have been injured. In Israel, at least 24 people have died and hundreds more have been wounded.
The situation is particularly concerning for Iran’s nuclear facilities. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has warned that attacks on these sites could have severe consequences, particularly if the Bushehr nuclear power plant is hit. He stressed that any direct attack on this facility could release significant radioactive material into the environment.
Despite the dangers, Israel has focused its strikes on specific nuclear sites rather than the reactors themselves. Recent reports indicate damage to key buildings at the Arak heavy water reactor, although there was no operational nuclear material at the time, so there was no risk of contamination.
As the conflict continues, Netanyahu has vowed to fight until Iran’s nuclear program is dismantled. He described the situation as an existential threat to Israel. Meanwhile, Iranian missiles have struck various locations in Israel, including the northern city of Haifa, injuring at least 31 people.
The Israeli military has reported that it has successfully intercepted many of the missiles launched by Iran, but some have still caused damage and injuries. The ongoing violence has left both nations on high alert, with fears of further escalation looming over the region.