The conflict between Israel and Iran has intensified dramatically, entering its fifth day on Tuesday with a barrage of missile strikes, escalating military operations, and rising casualties on both sides. The latest confrontations began with another wave of Iranian missile attacks targeting northern Israel. While the Israeli military confirmed that most of the projectiles were intercepted, several explosions were reported near residential areas, causing minor injuries and prompting air raid sirens in several towns.

In response, Israel launched its most extensive air campaign since the start of the hostilities, striking key Iranian military and nuclear sites. Among the reported targets were ballistic missile launchers, command facilities, and underground uranium enrichment halls at the Natanz facility. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) later confirmed that parts of the underground structures at Natanz had sustained damage from Israeli strikes. The move marks a significant escalation, as it is the first time Israel has struck the core of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure during this round of hostilities.

Casualty figures continue to rise, with Iranian state media reporting at least 224 deaths, including civilians, members of the Revolutionary Guards, and two senior military officials. Among those reportedly killed was General Ali Shadmani, Iran’s wartime Chief of Staff. In Israel, the government has confirmed 24 civilian deaths and around 600 injuries since the conflict began. A particularly high-profile strike in Tehran targeted the state television broadcaster, IRIB, killing several staff members during a live broadcast and further inflaming public anxiety. Panic has spread across the Iranian capital, with residents fleeing in large numbers amid traffic gridlock, fuel shortages, and long queues at cash machines and pharmacies.

Israel claims to have achieved partial air superiority over Tehran, stating that over 120 missile sites and air defense systems have been neutralized. According to Israeli defense sources, the current wave of attacks was preceded by a covert operation involving Mossad and Israeli Air Force drones that destroyed launch sites inside Iran before manned airstrikes began. The strikes, Israeli officials said, are part of a broader campaign aimed at degrading Iran’s strategic weapons capacity and preventing future missile threats.

International reaction has been swift and divided. U.S. President Donald Trump, who cut short his attendance at the G7 summit in Italy, has expressed strong support for Israel while calling on Iran to “completely give up” its nuclear ambitions. He ruled out the possibility of a ceasefire unless Iran agrees to broad concessions. The U.S. has since deployed additional military assets to the region to protect American interests and allies. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Lars Hoffmann, have urged immediate de-escalation and proposed a mediated ceasefire, which so far has not gained traction.

The conflict’s regional implications are also growing. Leaders from Jordan, Qatar, and Turkey have issued warnings about the potential for a broader Middle East war. Jordan’s King Abdullah described the situation as a “global threat” that could spiral out of control. Meanwhile, countries including Japan, India, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have begun evacuating their citizens from Iran amid fears of further instability.

There are mounting concerns about the global economic impact of the hostilities. A collision involving two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, widely attributed to electronic signal interference, has highlighted the vulnerability of international shipping routes. With a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passing through the strait, markets have responded with caution. Crude prices surged in early trading, while global stock markets dipped in response to fears of further supply disruptions and inflationary pressure.

As the military campaign intensifies, both Israel and Iran appear committed to a prolonged confrontation, with neither side showing signs of backing down. With casualties mounting and diplomatic efforts faltering, the conflict continues to pose a grave threat to regional and global stability.