Overview
An open war erupted between Iran and Israel, resulting in large-scale military strikes, significant casualties, and escalating regional conflict, culminating in direct US military involvement and Iranian retaliation against US interests.
Initial Escalation: June 13–14, 2025
- Israel launched a major airstrike on Iran, targeting six cities and key nuclear sites, causing high-ranking casualties.
- Mossad agents conducted sabotage missions against Iranian air defense systems.
- Iran reported 78 dead and over 320 injured, mostly civilians.
- Iran responded with approximately 100 drones and projectiles targeting Israeli cities, most intercepted.
- Israeli missile barrages killed and injured civilians; over one million Israelis sought shelter.
Ongoing Attacks and Regional Impact: June 15–18, 2025
- Further exchanges included Iranian missile strikes on Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Batam; civilian casualties continued.
- Israeli strikes targeted Iranian Defense Ministry HQ and oil depots, causing major fires.
- Yemeni militant group joined conflict, firing missiles at Israel.
- Nuclear talks between Iran and the US were cancelled by Tehran.
- Israel claimed destruction of significant Iranian missile infrastructure and capture of spies.
- Senior Iranian military leaders killed by Israel.
- Iran retaliated with attacks on Israeli intelligence and military centers.
- Exodus reported from Tehran after Israeli strikes on military facilities.
Expansion and US Involvement: June 19–23, 2025
- Intensified strikes on nuclear facilities (Natans, Hondap heavy water reactor) and military sites by Israel.
- Iranian missiles hit civilian sites in Israel, including a hospital.
- US publicly prepared and then conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites (Fordo, Natans, Isfahan).
- US clarified aim to degrade nuclear capability, not regime change.
- Iran sought support from Russia and condemned the US strikes internationally.
- Iran retaliated by firing 14 ballistic missiles at a US airbase in Qatar; no casualties reported.
- US President called for peace talks following retaliation.
Consequences and Regional Developments
- The conflict has widened beyond Iran and Israel, involving direct US military action.
- Iranian allies in the region have become more directly engaged.
- Attempts at peace are underway, but the situation remains volatile.
Decisions
- US attacks Iranian nuclear sites following escalation and Iranian attacks on Israel.
- Iran cancels nuclear talks with the US after initial escalations.
- Iran retaliates against US military base in response to US strikes.
Action Items
- TBD – All parties: Pursue further diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the regional conflict.
- TBD – Iran: Continue seeking international support to counterbalance US and Israeli actions.