In a dramatic escalation on June 14, 2025, Iran launched its second wave of missile and drone attacks against Israel, in response to the country’s massive airstrike campaign — dubbed Operation Rising Lion — targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites. Tehran claims that the initial Israeli strikes killed over 78 people and injured some 320 others, including scientists and high-ranking IRGC officials.

According to Iran’s UN ambassador, the retaliatory barrage included more than 150 ballistic missiles and over 100 drones, aimed at strategic locations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Israel reported sirens blaring across multiple cities, with at least one civilian fatality and dozens wounded despite successful interceptions via Iron Dome .

The strikes have sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles. The UN Secretary-General and world leaders, including China, Russia, France, and Turkey, have issued urgent calls for de‑escalation. A looming UN two‑state solution conference has been postponed under regional security concerns. Meanwhile, bordering airspace closures and soaring oil and gold prices underscore the global ripple effects.

Tensions remain sky-high as Netanyahu vows further action “as long as necessary,” while Iran asserts its “duty of self‑defence” and vows continued retaliation.