What’s Behind the Escalating Tensions Between Israel and Iran? Latest Developments Explained

Intensifying Conflict in the Middle East
In a dramatic escalation, Israeli airstrikes targeted Tehran early Wednesday, following Iran's announcement of potential new targets. This comes just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump called for Iran's 'unconditional surrender.'
The situation has led to widespread panic, with many residents of Tehran fleeing their homes as Israel's air campaign against Iran's military and nuclear capabilities enters its sixth day.
As U.S. warplanes are deployed to the region, Trump issued a stark warning to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asserting that the U.S. knows his whereabouts and reiterating the demand for Iran's surrender without further details.
In a social media post, Trump mentioned that there were currently no plans to eliminate Khamenei, 'at least not for now.'
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Israeli strikes have caused damage to Iran's primary uranium-enrichment facility at Natanz, affecting its underground centrifuge operations.
Israel maintains that its extensive military actions are crucial to prevent Iran from advancing towards nuclear weapon capabilities, with reports indicating at least 224 fatalities in Iran due to the strikes.
In retaliation, Iran has launched approximately 400 missiles and numerous drones towards Israel, resulting in 24 deaths on the Israeli side.
Explosions Rock Tehran
Residents reported hearing a significant explosion around 5 AM in Tehran, following earlier blasts during the night.
Iranian authorities have not publicly acknowledged the attacks, which have become increasingly frequent since the Israeli airstrikes commenced last Friday.
Israel had previously warned of potential strikes in areas south of Mehrabad International Airport, which includes both residential and military sites.
Additionally, Israel claims to have eliminated Iran's General Ali Shadmani, identified as a key military figure, in Tehran. Shadmani had recently been appointed to a senior role within the Revolutionary Guard after the death of his predecessor in an Israeli attack.
Trump's Stance on the Conflict
Trump departed the G7 summit in Canada a day early to address the escalating conflict, stating, 'I’m not looking at a ceasefire. We’re looking at something better than a ceasefire.'
He elaborated that the U.S. seeks a definitive resolution that may require Iran to completely capitulate, expressing a reluctance to engage in negotiations.
Despite his tough rhetoric, Trump indicated that diplomatic discussions remain a possibility, suggesting he might send Vice President JD Vance and special envoy Steve Witkoff to engage with Iranian officials.
The U.S. is also repositioning military assets in the Middle East to safeguard Israel from Iranian threats and to counter any potential attacks on U.S. military bases.
Iran's Response and Domestic Situation
Iran's military leaders have promised that Israel will face further attacks, with General Abdul Rahim Mousavi stating that current operations are merely warnings and that a 'punishment operation' is forthcoming.
As Iran launched new missile attacks on Israel, the Israeli military advised citizens to remain close to shelters, reporting that most missiles were intercepted without immediate injuries.
The U.S. State Department announced the closure of its embassy in Jerusalem through Friday due to the ongoing conflict.
In Tehran, shops have closed, and residents have been seen queuing for gas as many attempt to flee the city. Trump urged immediate evacuation for safety, echoing earlier calls from the Israeli military for residents to leave certain neighborhoods.
Internet Restrictions and Information Control
Iranian authorities have begun restricting access to the internet and phone services, with reports of significant drops in internet traffic. The Cyber Security Command stated that these measures are intended to prevent adversaries from exploiting the situation.
International websites appear to be blocked, while local sites remain operational, suggesting a shift to a controlled internet environment.
State media in Iran has advised the public to uninstall the messaging app WhatsApp, alleging it collects user data for Israel, a claim WhatsApp has denied, expressing concern over potential service disruptions during this critical time.
Nuclear Facility Damage Reports
The IAEA has reported that Israeli airstrikes have directly impacted Iran's underground centrifuge facility at Natanz, with satellite images indicating significant damage.
Israel has repeatedly targeted Natanz, claiming to have hindered its nuclear capabilities, which experts believe include around 10,000 centrifuges capable of enriching uranium to 60%.
While Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, the IAEA has warned that the country possesses enough enriched uranium to potentially create several nuclear weapons if it chooses to do so.