Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates Amidst US Deliberations
• Intensifying Tensions: On Thursday morning, Israel was struck by a barrage of Iranian missiles, officials reported, causing “widespread damage” to a major hospital in the south. In retaliation, Israel launched an attack on Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, a nuclear site situated near the country’s center, though reports suggest no significant harm was done.
• Enhanced Military Response: The Israeli defense minister has directed the military to “escalate strikes on strategic targets” in Iran. This decision follows “deliberate assaults” on hospitals and residential areas, intensifying the conflict further.
• US Contemplations: Although US President Donald Trump expressed that his “patience has already run out” with Tehran, he is yet to finalize a decision on US involvement. According to sources linked to CNN, Trump’s main focus is on preventing an extension of the conflict.
• Iran’s Message: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, announced in a national broadcast that Iran stands resolute and forewarned of “irreparable damage” should the US choose to intervene militarily.
Targeted Sites Clarified by Iranian Media
According to reports from Iran’s IRNA news agency, the “primary target” of the missile strike that damaged an Israeli hospital was a nearby technology park reportedly utilized by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Defense Minister Orders Intensified Military Action
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, revealed in collaboration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that the military has been commanded to “intensify strikes on strategic targets” within Iran. This comes in response to Iran’s recent wave of missile attacks across various Israeli cities.
Significant Damage at Soroka Medical Center
Authorities confirmed that an Iranian missile strike severely damaged Soroka Medical Center, a significant hospital in Be’er Sheva in southern Israel.
Casualties from Recent Strikes
Israel’s emergency services reported that Iran’s latest missile strikes on Thursday resulted in at least 65 injuries.
Civilian Areas Impacted by Missile Attacks
Speaking to reporters, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog asserted that the Iranian missile strikes, which hit the Soroka hospital in southern Israel, were aimed directly at civilian targets.