Iran’s Retaliatory Attacks on Israel and Global Responses

On the morning of June 19, TRT World reported that Iran initiated a new wave of retaliatory attacks on Israel's capital, Tel Aviv, resulting in damage to at least four locations. An Israeli minister criticized Iran, labeling it a "cruel terrorist regime" for targeting a hospital meant for Israeli soldiers, even as records show Israel's military operations have consistently targeted medical facilities across Gaza since October 7, 2023.

In the UK, Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely denied allegations that the Israeli military is intentionally attacking civilians. This statement contradicts reports from medics indicating that Israeli forces killed 59 Palestinians who were waiting for essential aid at a distribution center.

Simultaneously, on June 16, an organization representing the Puerto Rican independence movement presented their case to the United Nations, urging it to take impactful measures to ensure Puerto Rico's independence from the United States. The White House indicated ongoing diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington, noting that a decision by Trump on potential strikes against Iran would come in the next two weeks based on the progress of negotiations.

Iran has formally criticized Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), for allegedly siding with Israel during the ongoing conflict. The IAEA had previously accused Iran of non-compliance with nuclear regulations, leading to a censure from its board, which contends that Iran is a participant in the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

However, on June 18, Grossi seemingly retracted his earlier statements, clarifying that the IAEA cannot confirm a direct commitment by Iran towards developing nuclear weapons. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned Grossi's remarks on social media, emphasizing the significant loss of innocent lives in the conflict and asserting that misleading narratives have severe repercussions that necessitate accountability.

In a separate incident, Hurricane Erick made landfall on Mexico’s southern Pacific coast on June 19 as a Category 3 storm, causing significant damage throughout Oaxaca state. Although the hurricane has weakened into a tropical storm, officials have warned of hazardous rains as it continues to move inland.