US and Israel Strike Iran as Tehran Retaliates Across Middle East
US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran
The United States and Israel have launched coordinated strikes on Iran, marking a major escalation in regional tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
The attacks come just days after high-level negotiations between Washington and Tehran failed to produce a breakthrough.
Iran Responds with Regional Missile Strikes
Iran responded swiftly to Saturday’s strikes, launching missile and air attacks across multiple locations in the Middle East.
Targets reportedly included Israel as well as regional countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq.
Israel Targets Military and Nuclear Infrastructure
Israeli officials said their strikes focused on Iran’s military positions and nuclear-related facilities.
Airspace across Israel was closed following the attack, with emergency measures imposed nationwide. Several other countries in the region also shut down their airspace as a precaution.
Donald Trump Announces ‘Major Combat Operation’
US President Donald Trump described the strikes as the beginning of a “major combat operation” aimed at neutralising threats from Iran.
“This regime will soon learn that no one should challenge the strength and might of the United States Armed Forces,” Trump said.
Nuclear Talks Collapse Days Before Strikes
The escalation comes just two days after critical US-Iran nuclear negotiations in Geneva, mediated by Oman, ended without agreement.
The failure of diplomacy appears to have paved the way for the current military escalation.
Timeline of Key Events Leading to Escalation
June 13, 2025 — Initial Israeli Strikes
Israel launched major air strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities. Iran responded within hours with missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli cities.
June 22, 2025 — US Targets Nuclear Sites
The United States struck key Iranian nuclear sites, including Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan.
While Trump claimed the attacks weakened Iran’s nuclear programme, Iranian officials said the damage was limited and not decisive.
Latest — Full-Scale Escalation
The latest strikes by the US and Israel, followed by Iran’s retaliation across the region, mark the most serious escalation since the 2025 conflict.
Regional Tensions Reach Critical Point
The situation has raised concerns of a wider regional conflict, with multiple countries on high alert.
Analysts warn that continued escalation could destabilise the Middle East and disrupt global security and energy markets.
FAQs
Why did the US and Israel strike Iran?
The strikes were aimed at Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure following failed nuclear negotiations.
How did Iran respond to the attacks?
Iran launched missile and air strikes across the region, targeting multiple countries including Israel.
What did Donald Trump say about the operation?
Trump described it as a “major combat operation” to eliminate threats from Iran.
What is the impact on the Middle East?
The escalation has increased fears of a broader regional conflict and instability.
