Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian territory continued for a third consecutive day on Sunday, with Israel threatening to escalate the military campaign, according to a report published by The Associated Press.
The strikes reportedly targeted several nuclear facilities and military installations, including air defense sites, military bases, and oil refineries, marking a significant intensification in the conflict.
Meanwhile, Human Rights Activists, a Washington-based human rights group, claimed that at least 406 people have been killed and 654 others wounded due to the Israeli attacks, as reported by the AP.
Explosions rocked Tehran, Iran’s capital, in the early afternoon hours, with reports of missile strikes in high-profile areas, including Vali-e Asr Square and a district associated with the air force. Additionally, semi-official Iranian news agencies cited by the AP indicated that one of the Israeli strikes targeted an Iranian natural gas processing plant, reportedly causing a “strong explosion.”
According to the report, Iran responded by firing over 270 missiles at Israel, with 22 of them breaking through Israel’s sophisticated air defenses. The missile attacks reportedly caused damage to key economic sites and infrastructure in Israel, although no significant casualties were reported.
The escalation in hostilities came after Israeli attacks killed several top Iranian generals and nuclear scientists. In response to the strikes, US President Donald Trump expressed unwavering support for Israel, urging Iran to negotiate a new nuclear deal to avoid further destruction.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, reportedly said that if Israel ceases its strikes, Iran’s retaliation would also halt. He also blamed the US for its role in the conflict, stating that America must take responsibility for its actions in the region, as reported by the AP.
With Israel’s missile strikes threatening Iran’s energy sector, particularly oil refineries, there are growing concerns about the potential impact on global energy markets. The Israeli military has warned Iranians to evacuate areas associated with arms manufacturing, signalling that the campaign could expand.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry also announced that several metro stations and mosques would be converted into bomb shelters.
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