Israeli Drone Hits Refinery in Iran’s South Pars Gas Field/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ An Israeli drone targeted a refinery at Iran’s South Pars gas field. Iranian authorities confirmed explosions in Phase 14 of the key facility. The attack marks a major escalation in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates: South Pars Refinery Strike Quick Looks
- Israeli drone targeted Phase 14 of Iran’s South Pars gas field.
- Iran shares the natural gas field with Qatar in the Persian Gulf.
- Reports say a massive explosion hit refinery infrastructure.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu promised further strikes on Tehran.
- Iranian authorities confirmed multiple casualties and damage.
- Global powers called for de-escalation and warned of chaos.
- China, Russia, Turkey, and Egypt condemned Israeli aggression.
- The Israeli military says this was its deepest strike in Iran yet.
Israeli Drone Hits Refinery in Iran’s South Pars Gas Field
Deep Look
Targeted Strike Hits South Pars Gas Infrastructure
An Israeli drone attack struck Iran’s South Pars gas field early Saturday, specifically damaging Phase 14 of the facility. Semiofficial Iranian news outlets reported a powerful explosion at the site, which plays a critical role in Iran’s natural gas output. The attack, if confirmed, marks a historic shift—being the first known Israeli strike against Iran’s oil and natural gas sector.
Netanyahu Signals Further Escalation
In a defiant address to the nation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israeli fighter jets would soon be seen over Tehran. He vowed to continue operations to eliminate threats posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its missile programs. Netanyahu called the current offensive a necessary step to “pave a way to Tehran” and protect Israeli citizens.
Heavy Casualties Confirmed Across Iranian Provinces
Iranian provincial officials reported significant casualties from the ongoing Israeli strikes. In East Azerbaijan province, 30 soldiers and a first responder were reportedly killed, while over 50 others sustained injuries in strikes across cities like Tabriz, Maragheh, and Shabestar. Nationwide, Iranian authorities have yet to issue a definitive casualty count, though diplomatic sources cited numbers exceeding 78 dead and over 320 wounded.
Nuclear Facility Strikes Spark Global Alarm
One of the most alarming developments was Israel’s targeted bombing of nuclear infrastructure. Israeli jets reportedly hit Iran’s Natanz and Isfahan facilities. While the underground centrifuge site in Natanz may have been spared, critical above-ground buildings—especially those powering the facility—were destroyed. Israeli defense officials estimate it could take “more than a few weeks” for Iran to repair the damage.
World Leaders Condemn Israeli Action
World leaders reacted swiftly to the military escalation. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi called Israel’s attacks a violation of international law, warning of dangerous precedents involving strikes on nuclear facilities. Turkey and Egypt joined the chorus of condemnation, accusing Israel of dragging the Middle East toward full-scale chaos.
Russia Offers to Mediate
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke with Iran’s top diplomat, offering Moscow’s assistance in de-escalating tensions and reviving nuclear negotiations. Russia expressed readiness to help mediate between Israel and Iran while reaffirming its opposition to military aggression.
Trump and Putin Discuss Escalation and Ukraine
U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a lengthy phone call to address the unfolding crisis. The call also covered the ongoing Ukraine situation. Putin briefed Trump on his diplomatic efforts with both Israel and Iran and proposed renewed talks on Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Netanyahu Thanks Trump Amid Growing Alliance
Netanyahu sent a birthday message to President Trump, thanking him for his vocal support and efforts to protect Israeli lives. He emphasized that Israel’s military actions serve mutual interests and described the Israeli Air Force’s upcoming missions over Tehran as aligned with U.S. national security goals.
Regional Stability at Breaking Point
As explosions echo across Iranian cities, and retaliatory missile launches shake Israeli towns, fears of a broader war grow. With no signs of either side backing down, international observers warn that the next days may determine whether diplomacy or devastation defines the future of the region.
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