Here’s the latest on the escalating Iran–Israel conflict as of June 20, 2025:
- Conflict Timeline: The hostilities began on June 13, when Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure. In retaliation, Iran fired hundreds of missiles at Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Beersheba.
- Casualties and Damage: Over 639 people have died in Iran, including civilians and security forces. In Israel, 24 deaths have been reported, mostly civilians. A major hospital in Beersheba suffered extensive damage from Iranian missile strikes.
- Nuclear Tensions: The conflict was triggered after Iran activated a third nuclear enrichment facility, prompting a rare censure from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The U.S. has warned that Iran could be weeks away from building a nuclear bomb.
- Global Reactions:
- U.S. President Donald Trump has said he will decide within two weeks whether to join Israel militarily.
- Russia and China have condemned Israel’s actions and called for diplomatic solutions. Putin and Xi Jinping held a joint call to coordinate intelligence sharing on Iran.
- India has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate its citizens from Israel, with over 110 students already returned from northern Iran.
- Economic Impact: Despite the volatility, Brent crude oil prices are expected to average around $70 per barrel in FY26. Iran has partially shut its South Pars gas field, and Israel has suspended operations in two gas fields exporting to Egypt and Jordan.
