Israeli Strikes Escalate Conflict with Iran, Target Nuclear Sites and Tehran
June 23, 2025 — Tensions in the Middle East surged as Israel launched a series of airstrikes against Iran, targeting the Fordow nuclear facility, security command centers in Tehran, and the entrance to Evin prison, according to Iranian state media. The attacks mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, coming just one day after the United States joined Israel in striking Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the American military’s involvement, stating that the strikes aimed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program. Trump described the operation as “extraordinary and overwhelmingly successful,” though details on the extent of the damage remain unverified. Commercial satellite images indicated substantial destruction at the Fordow site, but experts have not yet confirmed the full impact on Iran’s uranium-enriching centrifuges.
Iran responded swiftly, launching missile barrages at Israel. Sirens sounded across multiple Israeli cities as the military reported intercepting several projectiles with U.S. assistance. Despite these defenses, Iranian strikes killed at least 24 people in Israel and damaged a hospital in the south, according to Israeli authorities. In Iran, the health ministry reported over 400 deaths, mostly civilians, resulting from Israeli air raids, and explosions and smoke were reported throughout Tehran.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei condemned the attacks, warning of a “bitter fate” for Israel. He appointed new military commanders after the reported death of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) chief Hossein Salami in the strikes. Iran suspended nuclear negotiations with the U.S. and its parliament moved to halt cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), signaling a hardening stance.
International reaction was swift. Middle Eastern nations including Qatar, Oman, and Iraq condemned the escalation, urging restraint and a return to diplomacy. Russia and China voiced concern, with Russian President Vladimir Putin offering to mediate between the parties.
The conflict, now in its eleventh day, has severely disrupted daily life in Tehran and raised fears of broader regional destabilization. Analysts warn that Iran may attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, which has already led to volatile oil prices and the suspension of airline flights to the region. The United Nations called for immediate restraint, warning of catastrophic consequences if the conflict continues to escalate.