The Israel-Iran conflict continues to spiral, prompting global concern and diplomatic urgency. The White House revealed on Thursday that US President Donald Trump is weighing a decision on whether to intervene militarily within the next two weeks. This announcement comes as the region sees heightened violence, international warnings, and delicate back-channel diplomacy.

Israel Under Fire: Explosive Attacks and Military Escalation

Tensions flared dramatically as Iran launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory. According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), these attacks are part of a “new round of combined missile and drone operations” specifically targeting military and military-industrial facilities in Tel Aviv and Haifa.

The Israeli military disclosed that Iran fired over 450 ballistic missiles and more than 1,000 drones. A new concern arose with reports that at least one of the missiles carried multiple warheads, which can split mid-air and target a wider area. A submunition from such a missile was recovered in central Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers were successfully neutralized.

Among the sites struck was the Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva, a key healthcare facility in southern Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the damaged hospital and remarked,

“All of Israel is paying a price” for the ongoing conflict. The IRGC justified the attack by stating that they had aimed at an Israeli intelligence and command center located “near a hospital.”

Grenade Attack Shakes Diplomatic Circles

Adding to the tensions, a grenade was thrown at the residence of the Norwegian ambassador to Israel, Per Egil Selvag, in Tel Aviv. Although no injuries were reported, the incident prompted strong condemnation from Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.

“I strongly condemn this serious and dangerous crime,” Saar said, affirming confidence in the Israeli police to apprehend those responsible.

The attack has sent ripples through the diplomatic community, raising alarms about the safety of foreign envoys in the region.

Russia and Iran Warn of Nuclear Consequences

As the conflict widens, global powers have started voicing serious concerns. Russia, a key Iranian ally and partner in nuclear energy development, warned Israel against attacking the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova likened any attack on Bushehr to a potential “Chernobyl-level catastrophe,” as the site employs Russian specialists and contains sensitive nuclear material.

Meanwhile, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran confirmed that Israel targeted the Shahid Khondab heavy water complex in Arak. Although the facility was non-operational at the time, Iranian officials called the strike a violation of international laws protecting nuclear facilities, stating there were “no radiological effects” due to the attack.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify in Europe

Despite the violence, diplomatic channels remain active. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to meet with European diplomats in Geneva on Friday. Iran’s state-run news agency IRNA said the discussions aim to preserve lines of communication with key global allies.

Media sources indicate that Araghchi has held multiple conversations with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in an attempt to defuse the situation. However, Iran has made it clear that any return to nuclear negotiations hinges on Israel ceasing its attacks. A diplomat close to Tehran noted that Iran could show “flexibility on the nuclear issue” if the US pressures Israel to halt military operations.

US Role: Supportive but Undecided on Direct Intervention

While the US has not yet formally joined the conflict, Prime Minister Netanyahu praised ongoing US support, saying,

“They’re participating in the protection of the skies over Israel.” He characterized current cooperation with the US as “remarkable,” particularly in air defense systems.

However, Washington's next move remains uncertain. President Trump has yet to decide whether the United States will directly engage in the conflict, but officials stated that a decision is expected within the next two weeks. As the situation evolves, the potential for broader international involvement looms large.

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