On June 20, the Israel Defense Forces conducted an aerial operation in Iran, striking missile launchers. Approximately 15 Israeli Air Force fighter jets used over 30 munitions on ballistic launchers in western Iran.
US President Donald Trump announced "minor progress" in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, calling himself a "peacemaker. " He also set a two-week deadline for Iran regarding the nuclear deal.
European diplomats called on Iran to continue nuclear talks with the United States, despite Israeli strikes. They stressed that regional escalation is dangerous and Iran is not allowed to have nuclear weapons.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Tehran's readiness to resume diplomatic discussions on the condition that Israeli aggression ceases and the aggressor is held accountable. This statement came after his talks in Geneva with European foreign ministers, where the possibility of a new nuclear deal was discussed.
A 5. 22 magnitude earthquake occurred in Iran near Tehran and in Qom Province, where a fortified nuclear facility is located. This occurred against the backdrop of continued Israeli airstrikes on Iran, including an attack on the Iranian air defense system "Magar".
According to new polls, US President Donald Trump's approval rating is declining. The RealClearPolitics average shows that as of June 17, 46.5% approve of his performance, while 51% disapprove.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated about the degradation of the russian economy and the need to intensify this process. He noted that the russian dictator can see the consequences of such regimes using Iran as an example.
European and Iranian foreign ministers met to assess Tehran's readiness for talks on a new, strengthened nuclear deal. This happened amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the United States expressing readiness for direct contacts with Iran.
Estonian intelligence does not rule out a decrease in the number of Russian drone attacks due to Israel's war against Iran and Ukrainian attacks on factories. However, Russia plans to increase the production of these drones.
The U. S. Department of the Treasury announced a new package of sanctions against Iran, expanding previous restrictions. This step is part of the ongoing efforts of the United States.
The European Union will not lower the price cap on Russian oil due to the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. The proposal to lower the price from $60 to $45 per barrel has been postponed due to market instability.
Thousands of people in Middle Eastern countries have protested, condemning the actions of Israel and the US after Israeli strikes on Iran. Demonstrators chanted slogans against both countries and expressed solidarity with the Iranian government.
China reached record crude oil reserves of 1. 18 billion barrels to protect against disruptions from the Middle East. This allows refineries to maneuver in conditions of potential disruptions in oil supply, particularly from Iran.
The price of Brent crude oil could potentially rise to $90 per barrel if the Strait of Hormuz is blocked, but a prolonged halt to shipping is unlikely, according to Citigroup Inc. analysts. This closure would affect daily global oil production and cause a sharp jump in prices.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli officials met with Trump administration officials. The meeting took place amid US deliberations on possibly joining strikes on Iran.
Iran's Fordow nuclear facility is located deep in the mountains for protection against attacks. The US is considering a plan to use the 14-ton GBU-57 "bunker buster," capable of penetrating thick layers of protection, but a wave of attacks would be needed to completely destroy the facility.
The Trump administration has intensified its monitoring of pro-Iranian groups in the U. S. amid consideration of possible strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Law enforcement agencies have increased surveillance of cells linked to "Hezbollah" after Israel's "Nation of Lions" operation began.
The International Atomic Energy Agency reported damage to key buildings at the nuclear facility in Khondab, Iran, as a result of Israeli strikes. It was noted that the distillation plant was also affected, while the IAEA continues to monitor the situation.
US President Donald Trump relies more on a narrow circle of advisers when making decisions about military action in Iran. He also consults with many outside the White House.
US intelligence believes that Iran has not made a final decision on creating nuclear weapons, but is close to it. Tehran may accelerate the process in case of an attack or the killing of its leader.
Brent crude oil prices have cut their gains and fallen by almost $2 after the US postponed a decision on the conflict between Israel and Iran. Brent crude is heading for its third week of rising prices.
The IDF struck three Iranian missile launchers ready for launch, targeting Israel. The strike also targeted a military commander who planned these launches.
European officials are trying to bring Iran back to the negotiating table, and the United States is considering its decision on the conflict within two weeks. The situation remains dangerous, but there is a window for a diplomatic solution.
Gold prices fell by 0. 5%, heading for their first weekly decline in three weeks. Easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have reduced demand for the safe-haven asset, while the Fed's inflation warnings have increased the likelihood of fewer rate cuts.
An Iranian rocket fell near the Microsoft representative office in Be'er Sheva, Israel. Air raid sirens were sounded in several areas of the country.
The leader of the "Mashina Vremeni" band, Andrey Makarevich, who lives in Israel, denied rumors about his capture in Iran. He also condemned Russian fakes about his financial situation and position on the war.
Israel likely struck an underground bunker in Tehran where Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei might be hiding. This was in response to Iran's attacks on Israeli hospitals.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia is trying to save Iran's nuclear program. He emphasized the need to strengthen sanctions and cooperation to counter aggressive regimes. This was agreed upon at the G7 summit in Canada.
The White House spokesperson confirmed that US envoy Steve Wittekoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were in contact by phone. Contacts are ongoing, and six rounds of negotiations have taken place.
IAEA Head rejects Iran's accusations that the report on nuclear violations justifies Israel's strikes.