Iran & Israel: The Never-Ending War

A Deep‑Rooted Rivalry Erupts: Israel and Iran Exchange Missile Strikes

The bitter rivalry between Israel and Iran stretches back decades. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran declared Israel illegitimate and began backing militant groups opposed to the Jewish state. Israel, in turn, has covertly targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure and figures, creating a cycle of retaliation rooted in mutual hostility.

The Escalation Unfolds
Last week, Israeli aircraft struck multiple Iranian military and nuclear sites—including Natanz, Isfahan, and Tehran’s state‑run TV center—prompting Iran to respond with a massive missile and drone barrage. The confrontation intensified rapidly and spiraled into a direct clash.

War

Missile Strikes Begin (June 13–16)
On June 13, Israel launched Operation “Rising Lion,” deploying jets, drones, and suspected covert operations against Iranian air defense and nuclear facilities. In response, Iran initiated “Operation True Promise III” on June 13, sending over 150 ballistic missiles and 100 drones toward Israel. Sirens blared across Israel, and its Iron Dome intercepted 80–90 percent of the missiles.

Casualty Figures
As of June 16, Iran has officially reported 224 dead and more than 1,200 wounded—mostly civilians. In Israel, roughly 24 fatalities and nearly 600 injuries have been reported—estimated at 5 to 10% of Iranian missiles breached defenses and struck civilian areas. Recent Iranian barrages (June 16) killed 5 civilians and injured over 90, including children, in areas like Bat Yam, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Petah Tikva.

What Comes Next?

Why is it Escalating?
Each side claims defensive necessity: Israel aims to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capacities; Iran responds to protect its territory and prestige. Shared civilian impact—bombed hospitals, schools, government buildings—makes de-escalation politically difficult. National pride, strategic denial, and regional influence all fuel continuation.

Trump’s “Evacuate Tehran” Warning
In a dramatic turn, President Trump abruptly left the G7 summit and urged via Truth Social that “everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran” . His message aligns with backing Israel’s operations and warning Iran against nuclear Armament. Panic ensued: mass traffic jams, overwhelmed shelters, and strong psychological impact . While Iran called the warning psychological warfare, it further ratcheted tensions.