The Middle East stands on the edge of a dangerous precipice after Israel and Iran exchanged waves of missile and air strikes on June 14, marking one of the most intense escalations between the two long-standing adversaries in recent history. What began as a preemptive Israeli strike against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure has now evolved into a full-scale confrontation with far-reaching implications.

The escalation began on June 13, when Israel launched a series of devastating airstrikes across Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, military installations, and residential buildings said to be housing key figures in Tehran’s nuclear program. According to Iranian state media, at least 78 people were killed on the first day, with dozens more reported dead the following night. Among the dead, Israeli officials confirmed the deaths of senior military commanders and nine nuclear scientists.

One of the most devastating incidents occurred in Tehran, where a 14-storey apartment building was reduced to rubble by a missile. Iranian state media reported around 60 deaths, including 20 children. Images from the scene showed a devastated urban landscape, with collapsed buildings, smoke-filled air, and traumatized survivors searching through debris.

Iran responded swiftly. During the night of June 13 to 14, it launched four waves of nearly 200 ballistic missiles and numerous drones toward Israeli territory. Air raid sirens echoed across Israeli cities, forcing residents into bomb shelters. In Rishon LeZion, emergency teams rescued a baby from the wreckage of a missile-struck home. In Tel Aviv’s suburbs, residents described thunderous blasts that shook buildings and shattered windows.

Israeli authorities reported three fatalities and dozens of injuries.........

© Blitz