Israel Braces for Potential Long War as Iran Warns U.S. Involvement Could Be ‘Dangerous’

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israel’s military recently targeted an Iranian nuclear facility, claiming to have killed three senior Iranian commanders in the process. This escalation raises concerns about a prolonged conflict.

The situation is tense as Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen have threatened to resume attacks on U.S. vessels in the Red Sea if the U.S. commits military support to Israel. This follows their temporary suspension of such attacks earlier this year.

In Iran, damage from Israeli strikes was confirmed near Isfahan, despite no reported casualties. Israeli military officials stated they hit two centrifuge production sites, marking the second attack on this area since the conflict began.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has acknowledged these incidents. Meanwhile, Iran retaliated with drone and missile launches aimed at Israel, although reports indicate no significant damage on the Israeli side.

Israeli defenses reportedly intercepted most incoming attacks. An official noted, “We are making it harder for them to fire toward Israel,” yet acknowledged that Iran retains significant military capabilities. Israel’s military leaders are preparing for a long campaign ahead.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed that U.S. involvement would be "very dangerous." He and other Iranian leaders have emphasized that their nuclear program is meant for peaceful purposes, despite enriching uranium to levels close to weapons-grade.

The current war erupted on June 13, resulting in heavy casualties. A humanitarian group reported over 700 deaths, including hundreds of civilians in Iran, following Israeli airstrikes on military and nuclear sites.

Public sentiment in Iran is rapidly shifting. As civilians face the ravages of war, many are left isolated due to internet shutdowns limiting their access to information. A Teraviv resident described a harrowing experience from an airstrike: “I’ve had five surgeries. I think I have nothing right here that is intact.”

The conflict has sparked significant military actions, with over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones reportedly launched by Iran. Although most were intercepted, fatalities in Israel have been reported.

Experts are weighing in on the conflict’s potential implications. Dr. Sarah Stern, a Middle Eastern studies professor, notes, "Each escalation narrows the chances for diplomatic solutions and increases humanitarian crises on both sides."

Talks aimed at de-escalation have stalled, with no new dates set for discussions. Iran remains open to negotiations but demands a cessation of hostilities and accountability for the conflict’s aggressors.

Amid these developments, public reactions on social media show a mix of fear and resilience. Trending hashtags like #PeaceNow highlight calls for dialogue amid the chaos.

For further insights into the geopolitical ramifications of these events, you can explore reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency and follow updates from trusted news sources.

This ongoing situation serves as a reminder of the complexities and human costs of war. Stability in the region remains precarious, and future outcomes seem uncertain as both nations brace for what could be a prolonged period of unrest.

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