Israel-Iran Air War Escalates with Strikes on Nuclear Sites and Civilian Targets

Tensions between Israel and Iran intensified Thursday as Israel bombed nuclear sites in Iran, including Natanz, Isfahan, and the Arak (Khondab) heavy-water reactor. The strikes reportedly damaged centrifuge and distillation facilities, with satellite images confirming structural destruction. These actions follow Israel's campaign to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons—an accusation Tehran denies.

In retaliation, Iran launched missiles and drones at Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa, targeting military and industrial infrastructure. One Iranian strike hit the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, marking the first reported use of cluster munitions in the conflict. Israel accused Iran of deliberately targeting civilians, calling it a violation of international law. Iran claimed it was aiming at military headquarters near the hospital, which Israel denies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed further retaliation, stating Iran’s leadership would “pay the full price.” Israel's broader strategy reportedly aims to destabilize Iran’s regime and pressure it into halting its nuclear enrichment, missile programs, and support for regional militias like Hezbollah and Hamas.

Iran warned of shifting its strategy if a "third party" joins Israel in the conflict. President Donald Trump is expected to decide within two weeks whether the U.S. will intervene. Meanwhile, Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff has held multiple phone discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

With Iran tightening censorship, halting casualty reports, and shutting down internet access, the full extent of damage remains unclear. As both nations escalate, the risk of wider regional destabilization and economic fallout, including a potential threat to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, looms large. The ongoing war now enters its second week with no diplomatic resolution in sight.