Middle East Crisis: Iran–Israel Conflict Escalates Following Beirut Attack

[Middle East Crisis] Tensions in West Asia have intensified once again as Iran and Israel continue exchanging military strikes despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. The latest escalation reportedly began after Israeli actions in Beirut, prompting Iran to launch missile attacks against Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. The IRGC claimed that ballistic missiles targeted the Ramat David Airbase near Haifa. [Israeli Response] Israel responded with airstrikes on several Iranian cities, including Tehran, Tabriz, and Isfahan. Reports from Iranian media indicated that powerful explosions were heard across multiple locations. Heavy bombardment was also reported at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, where large fires and smoke were seen after the attack. [US-Israel Tensions] The reported Israeli operation came despite claims that Donald Trump had urged Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid further escalation and continue diplomatic negotiations. Trump has repeatedly expressed hope that a broader agreement could still be reached. [Regional Security] With both sides continuing military operations and claims involving ballistic missile attacks, concerns are growing that the confrontation could expand into a larger regional conflict, potentially undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts and threatening wider stability across the Middle East.