Escalating Tensions: Israel and Iran Exchange Missile Strikes Amid Rising Regional Concerns

In a dramatic escalation, Iranian missiles struck key sites in Israel on Thursday, including a major hospital in the south, injuring many and causing extensive damage, although no severe injuries have been reported. The Israeli Defense Ministry has characterized this attack as a grave assault.

Retaliatory strikes by Israel targeted Iran's Arak heavy water reactor, a key part of its nuclear infrastructure. This comes amid claims by Iranian state media that no radiation hazard exists post-strike, although the reactor was reportedly evacuated in advance.

International actors express concern over the growing Israel-Iran conflict, with Russian and Chinese leaders condemning Israeli attacks, while urging diplomatic resolutions to avoid further destabilizing the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)