Israel escalates strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites as US weighs military action

Israel has intensified strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites amid escalating tensions and uncertainty over whether US President Donald Trump will join the offensive against Tehran.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that while Israel’s primary goal remains dismantling Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, “we may create the conditions” to help change the government, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Asked if this implied targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Netanyahu replied, “no one is immune.”

Defence Minister Israel Katz also named Khamenei, declaring he “would be held accountable” following Iran’s missile attack on an Israeli hospital, as both nations continue exchanging fire. Senior US officials are reportedly preparing for a possible strike on Iran in the coming days, with some pointing to potential plans for a weekend operation. Top leaders across federal agencies have begun readiness efforts, sources said.

Trump has publicly hinted at joining Israel’s attacks, a move that would significantly escalate the conflict in the oil-rich Middle East. Amid rising hostilities, international leaders are urging de-escalation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called on Trump to keep diplomatic channels open regarding Iran’s nuclear program, while Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, called for an end to violence and a return to dialogue.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed the country’s commitment to diplomacy, insisting Iran “has never sought and would never seek nuclear weapons.” Khamenei echoed defiance, stating he “won’t surrender.”

June 19 missile strike on Soroka Medical Center marked the first time an Israeli hospital was hit since the conflict began. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported, as the ward had been evacuated earlier. Meanwhile, Israel continued airstrikes on dozens of Iranian military targets overnight, including the inactive Arak nuclear reactor, a site of strategic significance due to its potential role in plutonium production.

European stocks and US futures declined on geopolitical uncertainty, with Brent crude oil rising 1.6 per cent to near $78 per barrel. Araghchi is scheduled to meet with European foreign ministers in Geneva Friday to discuss Iran’s nuclear program and the conflict with Israel. The following day, he will attend an Organization of Islamic Cooperation session in Istanbul focused on the war.

Trump remains noncommittal on military action, telling reporters, “I may do it. I may not do it,” and that he prefers to make the “final decision one second before it’s due.” The White House insists all options remain on the table as the situation remains fluid.

Since hostilities began, hundreds have been killed. Iran’s health ministry reports at least 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel says Iranian missile and drone attacks have killed 24 people and injured over 800.

By Vafa Guliyeva