Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates, Death Toll Rises

The conflict between Israel and Iran has escalated into a fourth day of intense missile and air strikes, resulting in increasing civilian and military casualties on both sides. Israel's aerial campaign targeted Iranian military, nuclear, and energy facilities, killing at least 224 people in Iran, including senior commanders and nuclear scientists, with some sources reporting even higher casualties. In response, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israeli cities such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Petah Tikva, raising the Israeli death toll to at least 24, with dozens more injured. The violence has caused widespread civilian panic, damaged critical infrastructure, and provoked international alarm, with calls for restraint to avoid a broader regional war. The United States has deployed additional resources to support Israel's air defenses, helping intercept many incoming missiles. Both Israel and Iran have issued warnings of further, more devastating attacks as diplomatic efforts struggle to de-escalate the crisis.