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Nuclear facilities

Escalating Conflict: Israel and Iran Exchange Missiles in the Middle East

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating rapidly as Israel and Iran continue to exchange missiles almost a week after Israel's first strike on Iran. President Donald Trump has given himself two weeks to decide whether the United States will join Israel's war against Iran. The conflict has resulted in the US considering joining the war, with Iran preparing missiles to strike American military bases in the Middle East. Israel has also launched multiple airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility, where the centrifuges were severely damaged or destroyed. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that the unfinished Arak heavy-water reactor was hit by Israel.

Key Takeaways:

  • Israel has launched multiple airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility, where the centrifuges were severely damaged or destroyed.
  • Iran is preparing missiles to strike American military bases in the Middle East if the US directly joins Israel's cause.
  • The US has a significant military presence in the Middle East, with 19 locations, including 8 permanent sites in Israel, Syria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
  • Iran's Aerospace Force claims to have "gained complete control over the skies of the occupied territories" after launching two missile barrages at Israel overnight.
  • At least 6 Ghadir radars in Iran have been struck and damaged by Israel since June 13, with a total of 3,200 Australians in Iran and Israel having registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs ' Trade for support.
  • Israel's Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed that the Soroka Medical Centre in southern Israel was hit by an Iranian missile, leaving several wounded and causing extensive damage.
  • Iran's Revolutionary Guard said after the strike that the ballistic missile was supposed to hit the nearby Israeli military and intelligence quarters instead.
  • Fordow nuclear base, built in secrecy and designed for survivability, is one of Iran's most heavily fortified nuclear sites and a prime target for Israel.

Statistics:

  • At least 3,200 Australians in Iran and Israel have registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs ' Trade for support.
  • Since June 13, at least 6 Ghadir radars in Iran have been struck and damaged by Israel.
  • Iran's Aerospace Force claims to have launched two missile barrages at Israel overnight, according to live broadcasts.
  • Israel has no aircraft capable of carrying the 13,608-kilogram GBU-57A/B MOP (Massive Ordnance Penetrator) to destroy Fordow's underground facilities.
  • The B2 Stealth Bomber, which can carry the GBU-57A/B MOP, is only available in the US Air Force's active fleet, with 20 aircraft in service.

Sources:

  • The New York Times
  • International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
  • BBC
  • Australian Department of Foreign Affairs ' Trade
  • Israeli Foreign Ministry
  • Iran's Revolutionary Guard
  • Council on Foreign Relations

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