From secret missions to open missile strikes, the Israel and Iran Conflict has reached a critical point. Here’s a clear breakdown of what happened and what’s next.
Israel and Iran Conflict Escalates as Missile Strikes, Retaliation Raise Global Concern
June 16, 2025 | Middle East Bureau
The long-running Israel and Iran Conflict has reached a dangerous new level after recent missile strikes, drone attacks, and air raids shook cities in both countries. What began as shadow warfare has now exploded into open confrontation, killing civilians and threatening to drag the region into a wider war.
Over the past year, tensions between the two countries have steadily increased. But recent events—starting with an Israeli strike on an Iranian facility in Syria and followed by Iran’s massive retaliation—have taken the confrontation into new and deadly territory.
Background of the Conflict
Iran and Israel have been political enemies since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran does not recognize Israel’s right to exist and has long supported militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel, meanwhile, sees Iran’s growing military power and nuclear program as a major threat.
For years, Israel–Iran conflict remained in the background. Israel allegedly carried out cyberattacks and assassinations, while Iran backed attacks from its allies in the region. But this year, the Israel and Iran Conflict turned violent in full view of the world.
Timeline of Recent Events
April 1, 2024: Embassy Strike in Syria
Israeli warplanes launched a strike on a diplomatic building in Damascus, Syria, believed to be a meeting place for Iranian military officials. Seven people were killed, including two high-ranking generals.
Iran’s leadership called the attack a “serious crime” and vowed revenge.
April 13, 2024: Iran Responds with Direct Attack
Iran launched a large-scale assault on Israel, firing over 300 drones and missiles. Most were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome system and with help from the United States and United Kingdom. Still, the attack marked Iran’s first direct military action on Israeli territory.
A 7-year-old girl in Israel was seriously injured when one missile slipped through.
April 19, 2024: Israel Launches Airstrike on Iran
In response, Israel carried out an airstrike near the Iranian city of Isfahan, close to one of the country’s nuclear facilities. Iran claimed the attack caused minimal damage but confirmed the strike happened.
The tit-for-tat continued, further escalating the Israel and Iran Conflict.
Civilians Caught in the Middle
As both countries exchanged attacks, civilians were increasingly caught in the crossfire.
In Israel, missile sirens rang out across cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, forcing residents to run to bomb shelters. Schools were closed, and air travel was disrupted.
In Iran, strikes hit energy plants and military bases. In cities like Tehran and Isfahan, people spent nights in underground subway stations and mosques turned into shelters. Electricity and clean water were also temporarily cut in some neighborhoods.
Human rights groups say more than 200 civilians have died in Iran, and at least 14 people were killed in Israel, with many more injured.
World Leaders Call for Restraint
The growing violence in the Israel–Iran conflict has raised concerns among world leaders. The United Nations, European Union, and G7 have called for an immediate ceasefire.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged both sides to “step back from the brink of a wider war.” Russia, which maintains ties with both Iran and Israel, has also offered to help negotiate peace.
So far, neither country has shown a strong interest in backing down. Iran has said it will continue defending itself as long as Israeli attacks continue. Israel insists it will take any steps necessary to protect its people and prevent Iran from building nuclear weapons.
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