Israel-Iran War LIVE Updates: Tehran Vows Retaliation as Tensions Escalate
The Israel-Iran conflict, which erupted on June 13, 2025, continues to intensify as both nations exchange heavy strikes. Israeli airstrikes, under “Operation Rising Lion,” have targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, military bases, and leadership, killing at least 950 people, including 380 civilians, according to a Washington-based human rights group. Iran’s state media reports significant damage to sites like Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, as well as energy infrastructure, including the Shahran oil depot. Tehran’s leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has vowed a “decisive response,” with Iran launching over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones at Israel, killing 24 and injuring hundreds.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared the U.S. “fully responsible” for recent American strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, ruling out diplomacy for now. President Donald Trump confirmed U.S. B-2 bombers dropped bunker-buster bombs on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, calling the operation a “spectacular success.” Tehran has threatened U.S. bases in the region, with advisor Ali Akbar Velayati stating any country hosting U.S. forces is a “legitimate target.” The U.S. has issued a worldwide caution for Americans, citing risks of demonstrations and potential attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists the campaign will continue until Iran’s nuclear and missile threats are neutralized. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claim their latest missile strikes disrupted Israel’s defense systems. Global calls for de-escalation, including from India’s PM Narendra Modi, have gone unheeded. Fears of a wider war persist as Iran mulls closing the Strait of Hormuz, which could spike global energy prices. The U.S. and Israel remain on high alert as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
Note: Casualty figures and claims are based on cited sources and remain unverified.