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Iran launched waves of missiles and drones into Israel, with blasts heard in several cities
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Tehran / Beirut / Gaza / Jerusalem –
Heavy airstrikes have rocked multiple parts of the Middle East as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies, just a day after the United States struck three key Iranian nuclear facilities.
Explosions were reported across Iran’s capital, Tehran, following Israeli strikes targeting government and military installations. In retaliation, Iran launched waves of missiles and drones into Israel, with blasts heard in several cities.
In a major security move, Qatar—which hosts a key U.S. military base—temporarily closed its airspace amid heightened tensions. Meanwhile, Israeli air raids struck areas on the outskirts of Zrariyeh, Kfar Milki, and Ansar in southern Lebanon, continuing near-daily operations despite a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in late 2024.
Trump hints at regime change in Iran
Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, stating:
“If the current Iranian regime is unable to make Iran great again, why wouldn’t there be a regime change?”
Casualties mount as conflict rages
According to Iranian officials, more than 400 people—including 13 children—have been killed, and at least 3,056 injured since Israeli attacks began on June 13.
In Israel, at least 24 people have been killed by Iranian missile strikes. Damage has also been reported to infrastructure, including a substation in Ashdod, which briefly left 8,000 residents without power.
Israel’s Tax Authority says over 40,000 compensation claims have been filed, amounting to $1.3 billion. At least 30 buildings have been deemed uninhabitable.
“We’ve never seen so much damage,” said the authority’s director.
Aid centres turn deadly in Gaza
In Gaza, aid distribution centres operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation have become what many residents are calling “death traps.” Eyewitnesses claim that Israeli drones and snipers have targeted crowds gathered for food aid, even in locations known and pre-approved for distribution. Palestinians describe these centres as "new killing grounds", adding that many feel they no longer have safe options for survival.
Iran accuses Netanyahu of provoking U.S. strike
Iran’s mission to the United Nations has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of dragging the United States into the conflict. “America has once again recklessly sacrificed its own security merely to safeguard Netanyahu,” Iran’s statement said, blaming both Israel and the U.S. for destroying diplomatic avenues.
Iran also criticized the UK, France, and IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, claiming they too bear responsibility for civilian deaths and the destruction of vital infrastructure in Iran.
UN: Iranian medical services overwhelmed
The UN Fact-Finding Mission on Iran reported that the country’s medical system is near collapse.
Key findings include:
Israel launches new strikes on South Lebanon
According to Lebanon’s National News Agency, Israeli warplanes struck open areas outside Zrariyeh, Kfar Milki, and Ansar. No casualties have been reported so far.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem warned last week that his group may intervene if the Israel-Iran conflict escalates further. So far, Hezbollah has not entered the conflict directly.
Qatar shuts Airspace, US citizens told to shelter
In response to escalating tensions, Qatar temporarily closed its airspace. Both US and UK embassies advised their citizens in Qatar to shelter in place. Several schools across the country have been ordered closed.
Ukraine fears setback as US diverts arms to Israel
The conflict is also impacting Ukraine, as the U.S. diverts weapons intended for Kyiv to support Israel.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that 20,000 anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine had been reassigned.
“Without the help of the United States, we’ll suffer more losses,” he said, warning of growing vulnerability to Russian air raids.
What Is the U.S. Base in Qatar?
The al-Udeid Air Base, located southwest of Doha, is the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East and serves as the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). Established in 1996, it hosts around 10,000 troops and plays a crucial role in operations across the region.
Source: ALJAZEERA
