Israel-Iran conflict escalates as US weighs potential intervention

The seventh day of the deadly conflict between Israel and Iran has seen intensified airstrikes, rising civilian casualties, and growing international tensions. While the United States has yet to take direct military action, its readiness to intervene looms large, with Israeli officials affirming that American forces are prepared for immediate strikes.

Intensified airstrikes and mounting casualties

Israel launched new airstrikes targeting Iranian strategic sites, including a reported attack on an unfinished nuclear reactor in Arak and a nuclear site in Natanz. The Israeli military confirmed that 40 fighter jets participated in the strikes, hitting dozens of locations. Meanwhile, Iranian missile strikes on Israeli territories have left at least 47 injured, with three in critical condition, according to Magen David Adom, Israel's equivalent of the Red Cross. Civilian injuries were also reported as residents scrambled for shelter amid the bombardments.

In Iran, an Israeli strike near Tehran’s police headquarters caused injuries, according to Iranian state media. The war’s intensifying violence has prompted international calls for restraint, though both nations continue to escalate their military campaigns.

US involvement hangs in the balance

Israeli Ambassador to France Joshua Zarka stated that the United States is fully prepared to intervene militarily in support of its ally. “The Americans are ready to strike immediately,” Zarka said, indicating that US military assets are already deployed in the region. However, US President Donald Trump has kept the world guessing, saying he has not yet made a final decision.

“I might do it, I might not,” Trump remarked, emphasizing his tendency to make decisions at the last possible moment. He added, “No one knows what I will do.” Trump’s administration has so far provided defensive support to Israel but has refrained from offensive actions against Iran.

Diplomatic efforts and warnings

Despite the escalating violence, Trump has not dismissed the possibility of a diplomatic resolution, leaving open the chance to convince Tehran to abandon its nuclear program. However, Iranian officials have warned of severe consequences if the US intervenes. Vice Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi declared, “If the US actively supports the Zionist regime [Israel], Iran will use all necessary tools to teach the aggressors a lesson.”

On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran that it would “pay a heavy price” for its missile attacks, including strikes that hit an Israeli hospital. Defense Minister Israel Katz accused Iran of deliberately targeting civilians and announced plans to intensify strikes on Iran's strategic and governmental infrastructure.

Civilian toll and international reactions

The conflict has taken a significant toll on civilians in both countries. In Israel, missiles have struck residential areas and medical facilities, while Iranian civilians near nuclear sites face warnings to evacuate ahead of potential Israeli strikes.

Meanwhile, a rally in Paris, organized by groups such as “Iran Justice,” called for an end to the war, urging solidarity with civilians on both sides. The event, held at the Panthéon, highlighted the human cost of the escalating conflict.

Outlook remains uncertain

As the conflict deepens, the international community watches closely for signs of de-escalation or further escalation. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the likelihood of a swift resolution remains uncertain, and the possibility of US intervention could reshape the trajectory of this already volatile confrontation.