Live updates: 13 killed by Iranian strikes on Israel, Trump warned Iran against attacking U.S. assets
NBCJUN 5
Israel, Iran Ramp Up Attacks; 200 Iranians, 13 Israelis Killed
Above: Heavily damaged buildings following an Iran missile strike in the Tel Aviv suburb of Bat Yam on June 15. Image copyright: Mostafaf Alkharouf/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
Israel's pre-emptive strikes are a necessary act of self-defense against an existential nuclear threat. Iran was rapidly advancing toward weapons-grade uranium enrichment and building an arsenal projected to reach 8,000 ballistic missiles within two years. The targeted elimination of Iranian military leadership and nuclear infrastructure prevents a future catastrophe.
Pro-Iran narrative
Israel's aggression constitutes unprovoked attacks on sovereign Iranian territory. Coordinated with U.S. approval, these strikes violated international law and forced Iran to defend itself through legitimate retaliatory measures against Israel. Such actions undermine diplomacy and highlight the dangers of unilateral military force in a volatile region.