Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated sharply, with Iran threatening to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as Israeli airstrikes enter a fourth consecutive day. Iran’s health ministry reported 224 deaths, 90% of them civilians, from Israeli attacks, while Israel claims at least 23 civilian deaths from Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes and hundreds injured on both sides. In the face of rising violence, G7 leaders gathered in Canada to address the crisis. US President Donald Trump, before departing for the summit, commented, “Sometimes they have to fight it out,” highlighting the lack of a clear de-escalation plan.
Amid fears of a broader war, Iranian and Israeli forces have expanded their target range, striking each other’s oil and gas infrastructure and raising the risk of environmental catastrophe. Explosions were reported near Tehran’s oil refineries, and Israel allegedly bombed the al-Quds force headquarters in the capital. Despite Israeli claims of air superiority, Iran has continued launching ballistic missiles, some of which have struck residential areas. Eight more Israelis were killed overnight, with fatalities in Petah Tikva, Haifa, and Bnei Brak. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed to have developed methods to confuse Israeli air defenses, though this remains unverified.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Iran’s parliament is preparing a bill to exit the 1968 NPT, which mandates a ban on nuclear weapons development and requires compliance checks. While Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, maintain Iran does not seek nuclear weapons, Israel continues airstrikes on suspected nuclear sites, fearing Tehran’s growing capabilities. Iranian authorities also executed another alleged Mossad spy, with Chief Justice Ejei warning of swift trials during wartime. Meanwhile, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated the G7 aims to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear arms while supporting Israel’s right to defend itself, pushing for diplomacy despite canceled US-Iran talks.
