The UN Security Council also convened in an
emergency session at Iran’s request
supported by Russia, China, and Pakistan
Web Desk
Geneva/Tel Aviv/Tehran: As the Israel-Iran war enters its second week, diplomatic efforts are intensifying alongside escalating military strikes. European foreign ministers are meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva to revive talks over Iran’s nuclear program. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called the next two weeks a “window for a diplomatic solution.”
The UN Security Council also convened in an emergency session at Iran’s request, supported by Russia, China, and Pakistan.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump is weighing American military involvement. According to reports, Trump has approved strike plans but is holding off for potential progress on negotiations.
Iran and Israel Exchange Missile Attacks
On Friday, Iran fired dozens of missiles, hitting cities across Israel. A strike on Soroka Hospital in Beersheba injured 40 people. Iran claimed the actual target was a nearby military base.
In response, Israel’s military launched overnight raids on nuclear and military sites, including:
- An inactive nuclear reactor in Arak
- The uranium enrichment facility in Natanz
- Iranian missile launchers and radar systems in Tehran and Isfahan
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that over half of Iran’s missile launchers had been destroyed. He vowed Tehran would pay a “heavy price.”
Civilian Impact and Global Evacuations
The Iranian death toll has reportedly reached 639, while 25 have died in Israel. Iranian officials say nuclear scientists and top commanders are among the dead.
The conflict has also led to:
- Destruction of labs at Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science
- Five Iranian hospitals damaged
- Over 20 nations evacuating citizens, including India, the US, China, and Germany
Iran Appoints New Intelligence Chief
After the death of IRGC intelligence head Mohammed Kazemi in an Israeli strike, Brigadier General Majid Khadami was appointed as his replacement.
Iranian Missiles Hit Civilian and Research Facilities
Missiles struck a hospital in Tehran and caused structural collapse at Weizmann Institute’s campus in Rehovot, Israel. Luckily, no injuries were reported due to the overnight timing.
Rising Fears and Tensions in the Region
- Iran has declared it won’t negotiate over its missile program.
- Pro-Iranian groups in Iraq have threatened retaliation.
- Turkish President Erdogan warned of a new arms race in the Middle East.
- Oil prices could spike to $90 per barrel if the Strait of Hormuz closes, warns Citigroup.
Internet Blackout and Arrests in Iran
Iran imposed a nationwide internet shutdown—the worst since 2019. Over 223 people have been arrested for alleged collaboration with Israel, according to Iran Human Rights.
Outlook
With diplomacy and escalation unfolding simultaneously, the world watches closely. Talks in Geneva may offer hope, but airstrikes, rising casualties, and cyber restrictions indicate a deeply volatile situation.
