Israel and Iran on the brink of open war: exchange of blows, dozens killed

The world is once again on the brink of a major conflict after mutual attacks by Israel and Iran. On Friday, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, killing three generals, nine nuclear experts and 78 people.

In response, Iran launched dozens of drones and missiles at Israel on Saturday night. Explosions were heard in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, residential buildings were damaged, three people were killed, and about 70 were injured. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened: "If Khamenei continues shelling, Tehran will burn."

At the same time, the attacks disrupted planned talks between Iran and the United States on a nuclear deal in Oman. The Iranian Foreign Minister called them "unjustified" against the backdrop of US support for Israel.

Israel said the strikes had knocked out nuclear facilities in Natanz and Isfahan, and that restoration would take “more than a few weeks.” Meanwhile, explosions were heard again in Iran, and the Israeli army said: “This is not over yet.”

The escalation amid the war in Gaza and international calls for de-escalation are heightening concerns that the region is close to a major war.