Israel‑Iran Exchange Massive Strikes, Killing Top Iranian Intelligence Chief

Photo: AP

Middle East — The Israel‑Iran conflict surged into its fourth day as both sides exchanged devastating aerial assaults. In its latest strike, Israel reportedly targeted Tehran’s IRGC intelligence chief, Mohammad Kazemi, along with his deputy, in a high-precision attack on the city’s command infrastructure. Iran confirms their deaths, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

In response, Iran launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks early Monday, targeting urban centres including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. Though Israel’s layered defences—including the Iron Dome and THAAD systems—intercepted most threats, explosions and missile fragments struck residential buildings. Casualty reports indicate at least 14 Israelis killed and around 380 wounded .

Meanwhile, Iranian sources report hundreds of fatalities, with some counts reaching 406 dead and over 650 injured. Most casualties are described as civilians, particularly women and children caught in residential zones under attack .

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The Israeli air campaign, coded Operation Rising Lion, reportedly employed more than 200 aircraft striking close to 100 targets—nuclear facilities, military bases, missile silos, and state energy infrastructure in Natanz, Isfahan, and Tehran, including oil depots that caught fire. Israel’s goal is to preempt Iran’s nuclear capabilities, but Tehran denounces the strikes as war, pledging to retaliate “devastatingly” 

On the diplomatic front, G7 leaders convened in Canada to tackle the crisis. The European Union has called emergency foreign minister talks. The United States, while distancing itself from the strikes, warned Iran that targeting US interests would provoke severe repercussion. US President Donald Trump indicated readiness to push for a peace deal, though he admits "they might have to fight it out first".

With airspace over the region closed, thousands—including foreign nationals—are stranded. Governments have issued travel advisories, embassy talks are ongoing, and special evacuation plans are in motion.

Markets responded sharply: Brent and WTI prices spiked again, reflecting renewed supply fear, while stocks fell and safe-haven assets like gold surged .

Looking ahead, both nations signal no intent to back down. Iran says further missile waves are “on the way,” and Israel hints at deeper strikes aimed at regime leadership. Meanwhile, failure of upcoming nuclear talks and diplomatic channels suggests this could be a prolonged, volatile confrontation.

The world remains on edge as fires burn in Tehran, sirens sound in Tel Aviv, and international pressure mounts for ceasefire—yet military actions continue. With senior commanders gone and missile defences stretched, the region teeters on the brink of a broader war.