Israel and Iran traded airstrikes for a fifth consecutive day on Tuesday, with deadly attacks continuing across both nations. U.S. President Donald Trump, attending the G7 summit in Canada, announced he would depart early to address the escalating crisis. He reiterated his warning to Iran, saying it rejected a proposed nuclear deal and declaring: “IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.” Trump urged civilians to evacuate Tehran immediately.
Explosions and heavy anti-aircraft fire were reported across Tehran and Natanz, a critical site in Iran’s nuclear programme. Meanwhile, Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, came under fresh Iranian missile attacks, triggering air raid sirens overnight. Civilian death tolls are rising on both sides—224 in Iran, according to state media, and 24 in Israel.
In response to the worsening conflict, Tehran reportedly asked Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to mediate a ceasefire via Washington, offering flexibility in future nuclear negotiations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that Iran’s retaliation would persist unless Israel halts its aggression.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stood firm, stating that Iran had 60 days to reach an agreement, but failed. He insisted the operation aims to eliminate Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities—“If diplomacy works, fine. But we’re acting now.”
Israel’s assault has devastated key Iranian facilities. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi confirmed extensive damage to the Natanz uranium plant, with an estimated 15,000 centrifuges destroyed.
China urged its citizens to exit Israel via land routes as Israeli airspace remains shut. Oil prices surged over 2% in Asia after Trump’s evacuation call.
The White House said Trump would convene his National Security Council shortly. Despite diplomatic signals, military operations continue to escalate, making an immediate ceasefire uncertain.





OpinionExpress.In

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