Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates Amidst US Involvement and West Bank Tensions

Following Iran's retaliatory strike on June 22nd, significant damage was reported in central Israel. One building was completely destroyed, reduced to rubble, while several others sustained severe damage.

The Magen David Adom (MDA) described the scene as a large-scale destruction site, noting the severe damage to several two-story residential buildings, some of which had collapsed.

The Iranian missile strikes on Israel on June 22nd occurred shortly after the announcement by the US President that American forces had targeted three of Iran’s main nuclear sites. This attack led to Israelis in multiple cities seeking shelter.

In Tel Aviv, Israelis expressed relief upon hearing news of the US strikes on Iran. One individual stated that they believed the US President had done the right thing.

Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi stated that calls for Iran to return to diplomatic talks were illogical, as the US had undermined ongoing negotiations. This was done first by approving Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, and then by launching its own attacks.

Following the US attacks on three nuclear sites, the Iranian parliament agreed to close the Strait of Hormuz to naval traffic, according to a senior lawmaker. The final decision, however, rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The strait is a crucial global gateway for oil transport, handling nearly 20% of the world's supply.

While global attention is focused on the conflict between Israel and Iran, Tel Aviv is quietly increasing its occupation of the West Bank. In Tulkarem, the Nour Shams refugee camp is experiencing extensive demolition operations as Israeli forces intensify their efforts to seize more Palestinian land.

Protests against the war were held across the United States on Sunday, June 22nd, in cities such as New York, Washington DC, and Los Angeles, following the US airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites.