Israel bombed sites in Iran for the first time since a ceasefire in April, after Tehran launched missiles at Israel in response to Israeli strikes on Beirut. The escalation threatens to plunge the Middle East back into direct US-Iran confrontation.
President Trump told the BBC he called Netanyahu to stop the attack, but Israeli planes were already en route. This incident underscores three key dynamics: Trump's inability to fully restrain Israel, Tehran's willingness to link conflicts, and the fading prospect of a quick nuclear deal.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian claimed the missile strikes strengthened Tehran's hand. With the US economy strained by high oil prices and midterm elections looming, Iran senses Trump's risk appetite is low and is pushing for upfront sanctions relief.