Tensions Escalate as Iran Warns of “Heavy” Retaliation After Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens

Nuclear negotiations between Iran and

the United States previously mediated

by Oman were abruptly canceled

Web Desk

Tehran/Jerusalem: Iran’s state television warned on Saturday that “heavy and destructive” attacks on Israel were imminent, following Israel’s massive air campaign across Iranian territory that left at least 78 people dead, including senior military officers and scientists. Over 320 civilians were also reported injured in the strikes.

The Israeli offensive, launched Friday, targeted key military and nuclear facilities in Tehran, Isfahan, and Natanz, prompting Iran to respond with Operation True Promise 3, which left at least two Israelis dead and 40 injured.

US-Iran Nuclear Talks Collapse Amid Violence

In the wake of the escalating conflict, nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States—previously mediated by Oman—were abruptly canceled. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi confirmed the talks’ suspension, stating, “Diplomacy and dialogue remain the only pathway to lasting peace.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned the US stance, calling dialogue “unjustifiable” while Israeli attacks persist. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the strikes had rendered continued talks “meaningless,” accusing Washington of enabling Israeli aggression.

Netanyahu Vows More Strikes, Claims Nuclear Setback for Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to intensify military operations in the days ahead. In a televised address, he warned, “What they have seen so far is nothing compared to what will come.” He claimed the strikes had set Iran’s nuclear program back “by years.”

Israel’s military said over 150 Iranian targets were struck, including nuclear-related sites and military bases. Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that Israeli forces had established “aerial freedom of action” over Iran, launching over 70 fighter jets in Friday night’s assault alone.

Casualties and Damage on Both Sides

Iranian state TV reported at least 60 civilians, including 20 children, were killed in a single attack on a residential complex. Separately, an Israeli strike on a Red Crescent ambulance killed two people in northwest Iran, and a drone attack in Hamedan province killed a local police chief and officer.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the deaths of at least four of its members, including two killed in a strike on Zarandiyeh Basij base.

Israel said more than 20 senior commanders from Iran’s military and Revolutionary Guard had been killed in its ongoing operation.

Iran Claims Downing of Israeli F-35 Fighter Jet

In a potentially game-changing development, Iranian state broadcaster Press TV reported that an Israeli F-35 stealth fighter was shot down by Iranian air defenses over the western region. The pilot’s status remains unknown, with an investigation underway. Israel has denied previous claims of any aircraft losses.

Damage to Nuclear Sites but No Radiation Leak, Says IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed “limited damage” to key Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz and Isfahan, including a uranium conversion site and a fuel fabrication plant. However, it reported no change in off-site radiation levels.

“As in Natanz, no increase in off-site radiation expected,” the IAEA posted on X.

International Calls for Restraint

As tensions reach dangerous levels, global leaders have called for de-escalation. The Pope and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both sides to exercise restraint and return to diplomacy.

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment of additional British military assets to the Middle East to support regional stability.