Israel, Iran Exchange Missile Strikes for Third Day with Rising Death Toll

The conflict between Israel and Iran has escalated into a deadly exchange of missile strikes for a third consecutive day, with at least 13 Israelis and 78 Iranians reported dead. Israel targeted Iran’s Defense Ministry headquarters and nuclear-related sites, killing senior military figures and scientists, while Iran launched multiple missile barrages deep into Israeli territory, causing civilian casualties and damage. Israel’s international airport remains closed, and regional fears of a prolonged conflict grow as both sides intensify their attacks. President Donald Trump stated the U.S. was not involved in the initial strikes but warned Iran that any aggression against the U.S. would be met with overwhelming force. Trump also expressed hope that Iran and Israel “should and will” make a deal to end the hostilities, citing his past success in brokering peace agreements between India and Pakistan and other global conflicts. Diplomatic efforts, including scheduled nuclear talks in Oman, have been disrupted amid the violence, underscoring the fragile state of regional stability.