New Delhi: The deadly exchange of missile strikes between Iran and Israel entered its fourth consecutive day on Monday, with no immediate signs of de-escalation. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office reported a rising death toll, with 24 fatalities confirmed since Friday, including 11 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours. Among the latest casualties were four in Petakh Tikva near Tel Aviv, three in Haifa, and one in Bnei Brak.
Key Developments:
– Expanding Strikes: Israel intensified its offensive against Iran, targeting the Iranian Defense Ministry headquarters in Tehran and sites allegedly linked to Iran’s nuclear program.
– Iran’s Retaliation: Iranian missile and drone attacks have killed 24 in Israel since Friday, while Tehran claims 224 dead on its side, mostly civilians.
– Nuclear Treaty Threat: Reports suggest Iran may withdraw from a key nuclear treaty amid heightened tensions.
– Diplomatic Stalemate: Iran has reportedly rejected ceasefire talks through Qatari and Omani mediators, insisting it will not negotiate while under attack.
Political Fallout:
– Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Iran’s regime of plotting against former U.S. President Donald Trump, alleging they viewed him as a threat to their nuclear ambitions.
– A senior U.S. official revealed that Trump had blocked an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
As hostilities escalate, global concerns grow over a potential wider conflict, with both sides continuing strikes and casualties mounting. The situation remains volatile, with no clear path to immediate de-escalation.
