Iran's Missile Strikes on Israel Fuel Fears of Wider Middle East War

Missiles launched by Iran have struck the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa, causing significant damage to homes. This escalation has heightened concerns among global leaders, particularly those gathered for the G7 meeting, that the conflict between Iran and Israel could expand into a wider Middle East war.

Emergency services in Israel reported casualties following the attacks. Four fatalities were confirmed, with 87 individuals injured. The strikes hit multiple locations in central Israel, including a residential building in Petah Tikva, near Tel Aviv, which suffered extensive damage.

In Haifa, search and rescue operations were underway, with approximately 30 people wounded. Reports indicated fires at a power plant near the port. Iranian state media claimed the country had launched a substantial number of missiles at Israel, signaling a refusal to de-escalate despite international pressure.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards asserted that their latest attack employed a new tactic designed to overwhelm Israel's defense systems. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the claims. Israeli officials have acknowledged the limitations of their defense systems and warned of further challenges.

The conflict has seen reciprocal attacks. Israeli strikes on Iran resulted in the death of a high-ranking intelligence official and two other officers, according to Iranian state media. In response, Israel targeted surface-to-surface missile sites within Iran. Images from Tehran showed a large fire at a fuel depot, raising concerns about the impact on the global economy.

Prior to the recent attacks, earlier strikes had resulted in at least 14 fatalities in Israel. The death toll in Iran had reached at least 224, with a significant majority of the casualties reported to be civilians.

The G7 leaders convened in Canada, with the Israel-Iran conflict as a primary focus. Discussions included efforts to de-escalate the situation and explore diplomatic solutions.

Iran has communicated to mediators that it is not open to a ceasefire while under Israeli attack. Reports also emerged of a US intervention, with the US president reportedly vetoing an Israeli plan to target Iran's supreme leader.

Israel initiated the current phase of the conflict with a surprise attack, targeting Iran's military leadership and nuclear sites. Iran has vowed retaliation. The US has expressed support for Israel's actions while denying any direct involvement and cautioning Iran against targeting US assets. The US has also stated that Iran could end the war by agreeing to restrictions on its nuclear program.