Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates: Multiple Missile Barrages, U.S. Strikes, and Global Reactions Intensify Tensions

June 23, 2025 | Global Desk

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, the long-simmering conflict between Israel and Iran entered its 11th day with intense missile exchanges and international alarm. Iran launched a third salvo of surface-to-surface missiles at Israel in under two hours on Monday, following Israel’s aggressive strikes on Iranian missile launch pads in western regions earlier the same day.

The fighting comes in the wake of a powerful Israeli military offensive that began on June 13, targeting Iran’s missile systems, nuclear infrastructure, and top military officials. The recent strikes mark one of the most significant military escalations in the region in years, pushing the possibility of a broader conflict to the forefront of global diplomatic concerns.

U.S. Bunker-Buster Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

Over the weekend, American warplanes carried out coordinated strikes using bunker-buster bombs on three key Iranian nuclear sites. The Pentagon claimed the strikes were meant to disable Iran’s nuclear capabilities and send a warning about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.

President Donald Trump declared that the mission had “obliterated” Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure. However, intelligence sources and defense analysts remain cautious, suggesting that the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

Iran condemned the U.S. strikes as a “flagrant violation of sovereignty” and accused Washington of crossing “a very big red line.” Tehran insisted that diplomatic engagement was now off the table, asserting its right to retaliate and defend its national security.

Iran Responds With Force: Missile Barrages Continue

Iran’s military responded swiftly. By Monday afternoon, sirens blared across northern Israel as a third wave of Iranian missiles was detected. According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), alerts were triggered in multiple cities, although civilians were cleared to exit shelters shortly after.

The Iranian Red Crescent confirmed that one Israeli strike landed near its facility in northern Tehran. Videos circulating on Telegram showed smoke billowing near the area, heightening fears of civilian casualties.

 

Operation Sindhu: India Evacuates Citizens
 

Amid the intensifying violence, India launched Operation Sindhu to safely evacuate its nationals from Israel. On Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that 160 Indian citizens had been airlifted from Tel Aviv as a precautionary measure.

The Indian government reiterated its call for de-escalation, urging both sides to prioritize diplomacy and civilian safety.

China, Russia Step In: Urgent Calls for De-Escalation
 

China issued a strong statement on Monday, warning of a potential “spillover of war” if both countries do not restrain themselves. “We urge Iran and Israel to avoid repeated escalation and return to political solutions,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a press briefing in Beijing.

In parallel, Iran’s Supreme Leader dispatched the country’s foreign minister to Moscow, seeking greater support from Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Putin has condemned Israel’s military actions, his silence on the U.S. attacks has drawn criticism in Tehran.

Sources close to the Iranian government revealed that Iran is dissatisfied with the level of support received from Russia thus far and is pressing for a more robust diplomatic and strategic alliance. Specific details of Tehran’s expectations from Moscow have not been disclosed.

 

Tensions at Boiling Point: What Lies Ahead

 

With air assaults raging, diplomatic efforts stalling, and civilian evacuations increasing, the geopolitical situation in the Middle East is rapidly deteriorating. Analysts warn that the introduction of American and Russian interests into the conflict could set the stage for an even more dangerous multi-national confrontation.

Despite the heightened tensions, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that “America does not seek war with Iran,” indicating that Washington remains open to diplomatic resolution if Tehran re-engages.

For now, however, the fighting continues—with no ceasefire in sight and global powers watching closely.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Iran launched three missile barrages at Israel in less than 2 hours on June 23.
• Israel continues airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities.
• U.S. conducted bunker-buster strikes over the weekend; Trump says Iran’s nuclear capabilities are “obliterated.”
• Iran decries the attacks as a major red line breach, ending diplomatic overtures.
• India evacuates 160 nationals under Operation Sindhu amid safety concerns.
• China and Iran call on Russia to take stronger action to prevent further escalation.