Iran-Israel War: Missiles Rain Down, Nuclear Sites Hit, and Trump Faces a 2-Week Decision

2025-06-20 00:00:39.642

Iranian missiles hit a major hospital in southern Israel and residential buildings in Tel Aviv, wounding 240 people. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz blamed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating that he "should not continue to exist." Israel responded with strikes on Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor. The White House announced that President Donald Trump will decide within two weeks whether to strike Iran, noting a "substantial" chance of negotiations. Several US airlines suspended flights to the Middle East. Iran summoned Germany’s envoy over the Chancellor's remarks supporting Israel. An Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed 19 people. Hospital staff at a major Israeli hospital moved patients to the basement before the missile strike. Italy's foreign minister spoke with the US Secretary of State, reiterating a commitment to de-escalation. The UN is working to restore communications in Gaza, while Iran asked the UN Security Council to condemn Israel's strikes. Canada will help its citizens evacuate from Israel and Iran. The Houthi leader praised Iran’s response. Hundreds of Israelis returned home from Cyprus. Iran experienced a major internet blackout. The Israeli military stated Iran used a missile with multiple warheads. Russia voiced concern about security at Iran’s Russia-built nuclear power plant. An Israeli official stated Iran launched 450 missiles and 1,000 drones. Gaza officials reported 69 deaths in 24 hours. Israel claimed to have destroyed most of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers. At least 8 were killed near an aid distribution site in Gaza. Russia warned the US against entering the conflict. China's Xi called for a ceasefire. Iran appointed a new ground forces commander. An Iraqi militia threatened to attack US citizens if Khamenei is targeted. The French foreign minister stated France and Europe are willing to negotiate with Iran. Patients were evacuated from the Soroka Medical Center after a missile strike. Iran claimed it targeted a military site, not the hospital. The Egyptian FM pushed for de-escalation dialogue. Israel said the Arak reactor attack was meant to prevent plutonium production. Several countries prepared to evacuate citizens. Israel's main southern hospital sustained a direct hit. Israeli strikes on Iran killed at least 639, according to a rights group.