What's happened
Israel launches a retaliatory attack on Iran, targeting an air base and nuclear site near Isfahan, in response to Iran's recent drone and missile assault on Israel. Iran fires air defenses in retaliation, with conflicting reports on the extent of the damage. Tensions escalate between the two countries, raising fears of a wider conflict.
Why it matters
The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, with tit-for-tat attacks, raises concerns about regional stability and the potential for a wider conflict. The situation underscores the volatile nature of the Middle East and the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and casualties.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports on Israel's attack on Iran, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the two countries. The Independent provides details on the Iranian response to the attack, with conflicting reports on the extent of the damage. Nikkei Asia covers the tensions between Israel and Iran, with US officials confirming Israel's involvement in the attack.
How we got here
The conflict between Israel and Iran has a long history of proxy battles and tensions, with recent drone and missile attacks escalating the situation. Both countries have strategic interests in the region, including Iran's support for militant groups and Israel's security concerns.
Common question
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Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a
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Isfahan, historically also rendered in English as Ispahan, Sepahan, Esfahan or Hispahan, is a city in Iran. It is located 406 kilometres south of Tehran and is the capital of Isfahan Province.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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The International Atomic Energy Agency is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.