In the pre-dawn hours of Friday (Tehran time), Israel launched what it called "preemptive strikes" against Iran, marking one of the most serious escalations in the region in months. The move triggered an immediate state of emergency across Israel, while Iranian state media reported multiple explosions rocking the outskirts of Tehran.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, speaking on state television, warned of "harsh punishment," claiming the strikes killed senior military commanders and key nuclear scientists. Reports from the Associated Press suggest that Hossein Salami, Chief Commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, may have been among those killed.
In Tel Aviv, Israeli officials defended the operation as a necessary step to degrade Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure. "We acted decisively to protect our citizens," said a statement from Israel's defense ministry.
Just 48 hours earlier, the United States signaled concern by ordering non-essential staff to leave its embassy in neighboring Iraq. The U.S. State Department framed the move as a precaution to "keep Americans safe, both at home and abroad."
Experts warn that both nations stand at a dangerous crossroads. Israel's ongoing campaign in Gaza since October 2023 has drawn international condemnation, with accusations of potential human rights violations. Meanwhile, Iran's regional influence has been under strain, its global support eroded by economic challenges and diplomatic isolation.
With both governments facing intense domestic and international pressure, analysts say the calculus for retaliation has shifted. "Neither side can claim a clear moral high ground right now," notes one Middle East specialist. "A further spiral of violence would only deepen the humanitarian toll without delivering lasting security for either country."
As the world watches, the question remains: will cooler heads prevail, or will the region slide into a wider conflict?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
