Middle East Tensions Soar After Israeli Airstrikes on Iran
Middle East tensions soar as Israel launched Operation Rising Lion on 13 June, sending around 200 aircraft to strike nearly 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities like Natanz, missile bases, and residential areas. The Israeli airstrikes on Iran killed top officials, as well as civilians, were killed in the attack. Iran responded with over 100 drones targeting Israel, triggering airspace closures and missile defences. Oil prices jumped 7–12% amid fears of wider conflict. The U.S. has claimed it was not involved, despite prior coordination, as global leaders called for restraint to protect nuclear talks in Oman.
Read a full WTX News report on Israel’s attack
Fact File – What we know so far
🔁 Reactions:
- US President Donald Trump: “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table.”
- UK’s Keir Starmer: Calls strikes “concerning” saying “escalation serves no-one in the region”
- Australia says it was “alarmed” by the escalation
- UN calls for a de-escalation
📊 Sentiment: Negative–neutral.