War, conflict, bloodshed, and hostile relations have never brought prosperity to any nation or people. Yet, time and again, states and communities engage in wars. The reasons behind such conflicts range from geopolitical dominance, economic or political motives, to revenge or displays of power. The results are always devastating: loss of human lives, destruction of resources, collapse of peace and stability. And these wars not only harm the countries directly involved but often alarm and destabilize the entire world.
At present, Israel and Iran are engaged in open warfare. Prior to this, Israel was involved in prolonged conflict with Palestine. Yemen's Houthi rebels, in support of Palestine, frequently launched attacks on Israel. Meanwhile, the war between Russia and Ukraine also continues to rage on.
In Myanmar, the military junta is relentlessly attacking an ethnic community within its own borders. As a result, around 1.3 million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh as refugees and now live in inhumane conditions. Similar internal ethnic conflicts continue in some parts of Latin America and South Africa. Recently, tensions also escalated between India and Pakistan. But if the Iran-Israel conflict is not urgently addressed, it may escalate into a broader global confrontation, with states aligning with either Iran or Israel. This could eventually lead to a third world war-though that cannot be stated with certainty yet.
On June 13, 2025, citing suspicions about Iran's nuclear program, Israel launched widespread airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure. Prior to this, Israel had used drones-sent secretly-to assassinate senior Iranian generals and scientists. On June 14, Israel escalated attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks, which have continued relentlessly.
Over the past few days, Iran and Israel have exchanged deadly drone and missile attacks. Iran has unleashed massive attacks on Israel.
Israel is attacking with missiles and fighter jets, while Iran responds with ballistic missiles. Both sides are suffering rising casualties and massive destruction of infrastructure. Iran even struck Israel's Ministry of Defense building in Tel Aviv. Israel has again targeted Iran's nuclear facilities. Instead of dialogue, both nations' leaders are trading threats, further pushing the region toward a prolonged, bloody war. Neither side is willing to back down. Meanwhile, the United States has announced plans to evacuate Tehran, and several EU countries have expressed support for Iran. Iran, in turn, has threatened to attack U.S. military bases in the Middle East-raising concerns of global escalation.
In response to Israeli strikes on its nuclear sites, Iran launched the largest missile attack in five decades on Israel, shaking Tel Aviv. Thousands took refuge in underground bunkers. Israel also retaliated by attacking Iranian provinces, including Bushehr, where oil refineries and a gas field caught fire. Though Iran managed to control the blaze, fears of further escalation remain.
Iran claims to have shot down 10 Israeli aircraft, including three U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, and captured two Israeli pilots. One pilot is believed to have died. The F-35s, which are highly advanced and stealth-equipped, were used in active combat for the first time. According to The New York Times, Iranian missiles struck Israel's Ministry of Defense.
Over the past few days, Iran and Israel have exchanged deadly drone and missile attacks. This is the first time Iran has directly attacked Israel, triggering continuous military operations between the two states. Sadly, once upon a time, Iran and Israel had friendly relations-but now they are locked in open war, becoming arch-enemies. Their conflict has raised global concern and anxiety.
Previously, Iran and Israel engaged in "shadow wars"-covert attacks on each other's assets without claiming responsibility. These intensified after the Gaza war erupted. Though Israel did not officially claim responsibility for an airstrike on Iran's consulate in Damascus, it is widely believed to be behind it.
The deep-rooted hostility between these two nations has endured for over four decades. Their conflict has spanned air, sea, and cyberspace. Israeli covert operations and targeted assassinations have repeatedly shaken the Middle East. This conflict is fueled, directly or indirectly, by global superpowers who profit from arms sales and political influence. Their support-whether public or covert-has brought the current war to its peak.
The latest chapter began on June 13, 2025, when Israel bombed key military and nuclear sites in Tehran, killing top Iranian generals and scientists. The following day, Israel targeted Iran's energy infrastructure. Iran responded with missiles and drones. From June 13 to 19, attacks and counterattacks escalated into full-scale warfare.
Now, not only military installations but also civilians, civilian infrastructure, and even nuclear stockpiles are under threat.
It is imperative that both Israel and Iran cease hostilities in the interest of their people, sovereignty, stability, and resources. Both nations stand to gain from peace. And more importantly, peace between them would benefit the entire Middle East and the global community at large.
The writer is a journalist and General Secretary, Bangladesh Climate Change Journalist Forum
