The Israel-Iran war has intensified dramatically over the last 48 hours, with both countries launching direct and targeted airstrikes on key defense and nuclear sites. Israel reportedly struck Iran’s defense ministry headquarters in Tehran,

Russia has maintained a delicate balancing act in the Middle East for decades, trying to navigate its warm relations with Israel even as it has developed strong economic and military ties with Iran.

Israel's attack on Iran raises questions like whether the US will get involved, how Iran will respond, and if a wider conflict may be triggered.

The retaliatory strikes came on Saturday, a day after Israel killed top Iranian military leaders and scientists and destroyed an aboveground nuclear enrichment plant near Natanz.

Israel's military said early Sunday it had struck Iran's defence ministry headquarters, "nuclear weapons project" infrastructure sites and other targets, as the rival nations exchanged fire for a third day.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Israel launched an expanded assault on Iran on Sunday, with direct strikes targeting its energy industry and Defense Ministry headquarters, while Tehran unleashed a fresh barrage of missiles blamed for the deaths of four people and injuries of many others.

Israel's airstrikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities led PM Netanyahu to hold urgent talks with world leaders, including PM Modi.