June 13, 2025, New Delhi (10:50 AM IST) The Middle East is on the brink of dangerous tension as Israel has launched strikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that the first phase of the strikes has been completed. The strikes killed Iran's military chief, Major General Mohammad Baqeri, Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami, and several top nuclear scientists, dealing a serious blow to Iran's defense and nuclear command. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strikes targeted Iranian nuclear weapons scientists and ballistic missile facilities. Iran retaliates Iran retaliates with more than 100 drones and missiles at Israel. Israel's Iron Dome air defense system has been activated. The IDF claimed that three senior Iranian military officers were killed, holding them responsible for "international bloodshed." Iran has declared a state of emergency after explosions were reported in several provinces, including Tehran, Kermanshah, and Lorestan. Iranian state media reported that many people, including women and children, were killed in residential areas of Tehran. Also confirmed the death of civilians. Iran's Supreme Leader's threat Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened Israel with "severe punishment." He wrote on X, "The Zionist regime carried out a vicious attack on our country and showed its malice by targeting residential areas. This crime has prepared a painful end for it. The successors of our martyred commanders and scientists will fulfill their duties immediately." US position US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the United States was not involved in the Israeli attacks. US President Donald Trump has warned of a large-scale conflict in the region. Iran's nuclear program Israel targeted Iran's long-range missiles and key facilities for its nuclear program. According to experts, these attacks may cause a temporary setback to Iran's nuclear capability, but claims of complete destruction are exaggerated. The result The tension between Israel and Iran is increasing the risk of regional war. Iran's retaliatory attacks and Israel's preparation of Iron Dome have made the situation even more critical. Urgent diplomatic intervention from the international community is needed It is needed to avoid a large-scale disaster.