Israel has intensified its military offensive against Iran, targeting key military installations and media outlets, as its campaign entered its fourth day with no signs of abating. Airstrikes have led to mass evacuations from Tehran, with reports of injuries and disruptions to state broadcasting.
On Monday evening, an explosion occurred during a live broadcast by an Iranian state news anchor, resulting in injuries among staff and temporarily disabling the broadcaster's website. The strikes also included a significant attack on the Tehran command center of the Quds Force, a critical component of Iran's military operations abroad.
In retaliation, Iran launched missiles towards Israel, including a strike on its largest oil refinery, though many were intercepted by Israeli air defenses. The scope of Israel's offensive has expanded beyond previous targeted strikes, now encompassing energy infrastructure and government facilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested that the strikes could potentially lead to a change in Iran's government, stating that the military actions might alter the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. He also indicated that the conflict could be resolved rather than escalated.
In Iran, President Masoud Pezeshkian remarked that the attacks had disrupted ongoing international negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, asserting that Iran had not abandoned talks. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Iran should engage in negotiations before the situation worsens.
Initial strikes on Friday targeted Iranian nuclear sites, with reports indicating damage to centrifuges used for uranium enrichment. The bombings have prompted attempts to flee Tehran, leading to traffic congestion and fuel shortages, while phone and internet services faced significant disruptions.
The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for parts of northern Tehran, a tactic previously employed in Gaza and Lebanon to comply with international laws of war. The strikes on the Iranian state broadcaster were justified by Israel as targeting a communication center linked to military operations.
Since the onset of the conflict, Iranian missile attacks have resulted in civilian casualties in Israel, while Israeli strikes have reportedly killed at least 224 people in Iran and injured over 1,400. The situation remains volatile, with airspace restrictions affecting civilian travel and plans for airlifts being organized by Israeli authorities.
The ongoing conflict has drawn international attention, with implications for regional stability and the future of diplomatic negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions.