Middle East on Edge: Israel Intensifies Strikes Against Iran

Israel launched airstrikes on Iran, targeting military sites in retaliation for Iran's earlier missile attacks. The escalating conflict between the two nations risks broader regional tensions. While explosions were heard in Tehran, Iran's state media provided limited information. The U.S. was briefed about Israel's operations.

Early Saturday, Israel executed a series of airstrikes on Iran, specifically targeting military sites. This aggressive move was in direct response to a barrage of ballistic missiles Iran previously launched at Israel earlier this month.

With explosions resounding in Tehran, the event marked a significant escalation in the already tense relations between these longstanding adversaries. This attack raises the specter of a wider regional conflict, given the already volatile atmosphere in the Middle East where Iranian-backed groups are engaged in hostilities with Israel.

The United States was informed of Israel's military operations, and no nuclear or oil facilities were targeted, following assurances sought by the Biden administration to prevent severe escalations. Iran's initial response was muted, with its state-run media acknowledging the blasts but offering limited details.

(With inputs from agencies.)