On Monday, Israel launched a series of strikes targeting Iranian government installations in Tehran, following an Iranian missile and drone attack on Israel. This retaliation came on the heels of a significant U.S. airstrike the previous day, which had targeted Iranian nuclear sites, including the Fordo facility.
The Israeli military confirmed the strikes included key roads around the Fordo enrichment site to limit access. The Defence Ministry also stated that strikes were aimed at notable locations such as Tehran’s Evin Prison and the security headquarters of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. This escalation prompted a strong response from Israel, with officials vowing that Iranian leaders would face severe consequences for aggressions against Israel.
In Vienna, Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), indicated substantial damage was anticipated at the Fordo facility due to the U.S. airstrikes, which utilised advanced bunker-buster munitions. Tensions escalated further as Iranian officials, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, claimed Iran had relocated nuclear materials from the affected sites prior to the attack.
As a countermeasure, Iranian forces launched their Operation “True Promise 3”, targeting Israeli cities, including Haifa and Tel Aviv. Reports indicated explosions in Jerusalem, although no immediate damage was confirmed. In Tehran, airstrikes were noted close to Evin Prison, known for housing political prisoners, including dual nationals used in diplomatic negotiations.
Iran’s military leaders responded to the U.S. strikes with threats, suggesting they now have a “free hand” to act against U.S. interests in the region, given the presence of numerous U.S. troops in proximity to Iranian missile capabilities. The U.S. characterised its airstrikes as a one-time action to neutralise threats from Iran’s nuclear ambitions but signalled the potential for further military action if Iran retaliated.
Calls for de-escalation came from across the international community, urging a return to diplomatic efforts to mitigate rising conflicts. The European Union’s chief diplomat highlighted the urgent need for a dialogue to avert further escalation in the region, echoing sentiments from global leaders advocating for peace talks.
Historically, Iran’s nuclear program, which the regime insists is for peaceful purposes, has come under scrutiny. After the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, Iran escalated its uranium enrichment activities, inching closer to weapons-grade levels.
As diplomatic conversations continue, events are rapidly evolving, with Iran and its allies, like Russia, seeking to navigate the tension exacerbated by escalating military actions from both sides.