What's happened
Israel has reportedly carried out strikes inside Iran near Isfahan in response to recent drone and missile attacks by Iran. The strikes come amid escalating tensions between the two countries, with fears of a broader conflict. Both Israel and Iran have confirmed the attacks, with Israel's response seen as measured to avoid further escalation.
Why it matters
The military strikes between Israel and Iran have raised concerns of a potential wider conflict in the region. The tit-for-tat attacks risk destabilizing the Middle East and have drawn the attention of world leaders urging both sides to de-escalate tensions. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further retaliation and a significant impact on regional stability.
What the papers say
The New York Times reported that the Israeli strike on Iran near Isfahan was a limited response aimed at de-escalating tensions, while Iranian state TV downplayed the attack, stating that military and nuclear facilities in Isfahan were safe. The Independent highlighted the dangerous levels the confrontation has reached, with Iran threatening to target Israeli nuclear facilities in retaliation.
How we got here
The recent military strikes stem from a cycle of retaliation between Israel and Iran, with Iran launching over 300 missiles and drones at Israel in response to an Israeli airstrike in Syria. The shadow war between the two countries has now escalated into direct confrontations, prompting concerns of a broader conflict in the region.
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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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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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.