A new round of airstrikes by Israeli and U.S. forces struck multiple Iranian cities in the early hours of Monday, killing dozens and marking one of the most intense days yet in the 38‑day conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran.
Military aircraft and missiles pounded Tehran and other strategic locations across Iran as part of a coordinated offensive that officials said targeted Iranian military infrastructure and command sites. Initial reports indicate more than 25 people were killed in the strikes, including high‑ranking military personnel.
The assault followed warnings from U.S. leaders that Iran must reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global oil shipments or face intensified attacks on its power plants, bridges, and other infrastructure. Tehran has rejected such demands, calling them unacceptable and vowing stark retaliation.
In response to the air campaign, Iranian forces launched missile barrages toward Israel and Gulf Arab neighbours, including strikes that reached as far as Haifa in northern Israel. Explosions and air‑raid sirens were reported across Israeli cities, and rescue teams were searching rubble following an Iranian missile that hit a residential area, killing civilians and injuring others.
Iran’s leadership condemned the latest strikes as a violation of international norms and warned of “much more devastating” retaliation if attacks on civilian targets continue. Tehran has consistently framed its military actions as defensive, responding to what it describes as U.S. and Israeli aggression.
The intensification of hostilities comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts including proposals for a 45‑day ceasefire pushed by regional mediators, but so far no agreement has been reached. Global oil prices have surged due to the Strait of Hormuz’s partial closure, reflecting concerns over supply disruptions.
This escalation marks a broader and deadlier phase of the conflict that began in late February, with both sides trading strikes, missile launches, and threats. The toll on civilian populations in Iran and Israel has risen sharply, raising fears of regional spill‑over.


