Threats and diplomacy: Iran’s dual strategy on Israel

The U.S. maintains significant military presence in the Middle East, with thousands of troops across bases in Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Syria, and the UAE, amidst rising tensions following Israel's air campaign against Iran. President Trump is considering U.S. involvement, which could provoke Iranian attacks on American forces already targeted by Iran-aligned groups during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Need More Context? 🔎

Israel initiated its war on Iran on June 13, citing intelligence that Iran had reached a “point of no return” in its nuclear ambitions, which has influenced discussions among its Western allies, including the U.S. However, some Western intelligence agencies are skeptical of the immediacy of the Iranian threat, revealing divisions within the Trump administration regarding the situation. Need More Context? 🔎

Videos on social media reportedly show Maher al-Assad, the younger brother of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in a Moscow cafe, although the video's authenticity remains unverified. Maher, who is wanted for war crimes related to the Syrian civil war, including a 2013 chemical attack, fled to Russia after the conflict ended, while also being implicated in Syria's Captagon drug trade. Need More Context? 🔎

Following Israel's aerial strikes, fear has intensified in Tehran, with at least 585 Iranians reported killed, while Israel plans to continue attacks for at least another week. As basic services deteriorate, cyberattacks disrupt banking, shops remain closed, and hospitals face staff shortages amid an impending influx of casualties. Need More Context? 🔎

GettySmoke rises from an Israeli attack on Shahran oil depot in Tehran on June 15 Iran and Israel are engaged in escalating attacks, with Israel citing an existential threat from Iran's potential nuclear capabilities as justification. As evacuation efforts in Tehran struggle amidst widespread strikes, the U.S. remains hesitant about direct involvement, while Iran's leadership faces internal division and questions about future opposition dynamics. Need More Context? 🔎

As Israel intensifies its airstrikes on Tehran, concerns rise for foreign nationals, including around 20 Europeans, and political prisoners in Evin prison amid fears for their safety. Rights groups warn of imminent danger to these detainees, with calls for their urgent humanitarian release, as the ongoing conflict exacerbates their precarious situations. Need More Context? 🔎