Washington: The perilous aerial dance between Iran and Israel entered its fifth relentless day today, marked by escalating strikes and a dramatic, urgent call from U.S. President Donald Trump for all civilians to "immediately evacuate Tehran." This stark warning underscores the deepening gravity of a conflict that continues to shatter regional stability and send ripples of anxiety across the globe.
The latest phase of this unprecedented direct military confrontation saw renewed explosions reverberating across the Iranian capital in the early hours of Tuesday, accompanied by intense anti-aircraft fire. Simultaneously, air raid sirens pierced the night in Tel Aviv, a grim testament to Iran's continued retaliatory missile barrages targeting Israeli territory. These exchanges follow Israel's "Operation Rising Lion," a preemptive offensive launched last Friday that struck Iranian nuclear facilities and military command centers, claiming the lives of key Iranian military figures and nuclear scientists. Iran's response has included waves of ballistic and hypersonic missiles and drones, with both sides reporting mounting casualties. Iranian officials have cited over 224 deaths, predominantly civilians, while Israel has confirmed 24 fatalities and numerous injuries from the Iranian strikes.
President Trump's abrupt departure from the G7 summit in Canada a day early highlights the international community's profound concern. On his Truth Social platform, Trump unequivocally declared, "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" His statements linked the current hostilities directly to Iran's alleged refusal to engage in negotiations to curb its nuclear ambitions, a deal he insists should have been signed earlier. While French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire and broader discussions, and Iran has reportedly signaled conditional flexibility in nuclear talks through Arab intermediaries, the on-the-ground reality remains one of escalating aggression.
The ongoing conflict continues to destabilize an already volatile region. Beyond the human toll, the economic repercussions are palpable, with oil prices exhibiting significant volatility amidst fears of supply chain disruptions, particularly concerning the vital Strait of Hormuz. As the global community urges de-escalation, the immediate future remains fraught with uncertainty, with both Iran and Israel showing little sign of backing down from their respective campaigns of attrition.