Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-06-22 at 17:05
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HEADLINES1. U.S. Bombs Iran’s Nuclear Sites in Massive Strike2. Iran Launches Deadly Missile Attacks on Israel3. Regional Tensions Surge as Strait of Hormuz ThreatenedThe time is now 01:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.$final_reportAt one o'clock in the afternoon, this is your update on the ongoing developments across the Middle East and related international responses.Earlier this week, the United States launched a significant military operation against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, marking one of the most extensive strikes in recent history. The operation involved over 125 aircraft, including seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which flew from the United States in a carefully orchestrated deception mission. These aircraft dropped 14 Massive Ordnance Penetrator bombs—powerful bunker-busters designed to reach underground facilities—on the Fordow nuclear site, along with attacks on Natanz and Isfahan. The strikes also included over two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles fired from a US submarine, targeting key military sites. US military officials have reported that the damage inflicted was extremely severe, with initial assessments indicating substantial destruction to Iran’s nuclear capabilities. President Donald Trump characterized the operation as a "spectacular military success," emphasizing that Iran's nuclear program had been "devastated." Despite the military blow, Iran has claimed that most of its uranium was moved from Fordow prior to the attack, a point supported by Iranian sources, which could shift the focus of future Israeli and US operations toward ballistic missile delivery systems.In response to the strikes, Iran launched a series of retaliatory missile attacks on Israeli territory, targeting central and northern regions. These missile barrages resulted in 25 fatalities and over 2,700 injuries, with widespread damage reported across multiple sites. Iran’s armed forces also claimed to have targeted Israeli assets, including Ben Gurion Airport, with reports of casualties and damage. Iranian state media circulated false reports claiming the downing of Israeli F-35 fighters and the capture of a female Israeli pilot, though these claims have been debunked by Israeli officials and independent analysts. Iran’s leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, has publicly vowed to respond to what they describe as unjustified aggression, emphasizing that Iran will defend itself "by all means necessary."Meanwhile, Israel continues its military operations across Iran and its proxies. Israeli fighter jets targeted several military sites in Iran, including a strategic missile command center near Yazd, where long-range Khorramshahr missiles are stored. Reports indicate that dozens of military targets have been hit, and Iranian forces have suffered casualties, including the killing of four Revolutionary Guard members in strikes on a military base in Bushehr. Israel also conducted strikes in western Iran and in Qom, with reports of significant explosions and damage. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem, offering prayers for peace and expressing gratitude for the support from US President Donald Trump, emphasizing Israel’s strength and resilience.In Lebanon, Hezbollah has prepared for possible escalation, with reports of internal divisions within the pro-Iranian camp. Some factions oppose participation in further conflict, while others are expected to follow Tehran’s directives. The Lebanese military remains cautious amid fears of a broader regional war. In Iraq, Iran-backed militias and Hezbollah operatives are on alert, with some reports of their involvement in potential retaliatory actions.The broader regional picture remains tense. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for global oil shipments, faces potential threats as Iran’s naval forces and militia allies have threatened to disrupt maritime traffic. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that blocking the strait would be "economic suicide" for Iran and could lead to broader conflict, including possible military action. The US has positioned additional naval assets in the region, including missile destroyers and carrier strike groups, to ensure freedom of navigation and respond swiftly if needed.Iran’s internet services have been largely shut down for nearly four days, with the government citing security concerns amid escalating tensions. This blackout aims to control information and suppress dissent, as the Iranian regime faces both internal protests and external pressure.On the diplomatic front, French President Emmanuel Macron and other Western leaders have called for restraint, urging Iran to release two detained French nationals and to avoid further escalation. Macron emphasized the importance of returning to diplomatic dialogue to prevent regional catastrophe. Meanwhile, Iran’s leadership has dismissed calls for negotiations, asserting that they will respond to aggression with force and remain committed to developing their nuclear program, despite setbacks inflicted by the recent strikes.In Israel, public sentiment remains resilient, with widespread memorials honoring fallen soldiers and continued efforts to evacuate citizens stranded abroad due to Israel’s airspace closures. The government has announced plans to allow limited flights for Israelis in distress, prioritizing those stuck overseas, with strict regulations to prevent further escalation.International reactions are mixed. The United Nations has called for de-escalation, while regional actors express concern over the potential for a full-scale war. Protests in Tehran have demonstrated strong anti-American and pro-regime sentiments, with large crowds rallying in support of Iran’s military actions and sovereignty.In summary, the region stands at a critical juncture. The recent US military strikes have delivered a blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, but have also significantly raised the stakes for potential escalation. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy can prevail or if the conflict will deepen further, affecting global markets and regional stability.This has been your update. I am [Journalist Name], reporting live.Thank you for tuning in to this Israel Today: Ongoing War Report update.I'm Noa Levi. Stay safe and informed.Keep in mind that this AI-generated report may contain occasional inaccuracies, so consult multiple sources for a comprehensive view. 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