Iran Israel Exchange Deadly Strikes Amid Rising Casualties

The conflict between Israel and Iran has escalated dramatically, with Israel launching hundreds of airstrikes targeting Iran's military leadership and nuclear facilities, significantly crippling Iran's air defense systems. In retaliation, Iran has launched nearly 100 ballistic missiles towards Israel, most of which were intercepted by Israeli defense systems, while also firing drones at U.S. bases in Iraq, resulting in heightened risks for American forces in the region. Iran has vowed further retaliation, threatening to deploy its most advanced Kheibar Shekan medium-range ballistic missiles, which feature maneuverable re-entry vehicles and satellite guidance designed to evade Israeli missile defenses. The violence has led to significant casualties, with at least 138 Iranians and several Israelis reported killed, including civilians, as both nations brace for potential further escalation. Despite Iran's missile attacks, Israeli military officials report that the majority of the missiles were intercepted or failed to reach their targets, though some damage and injuries have occurred. The situation remains highly volatile, with the United States conducting defensive operations to protect Israel while Iran-backed militias maintain a cautious stance amid the ongoing hostilities.