Middle Eastern stability faces unprecedented strain following Israel's large-scale military operation targeting Iranian sites. Dubbed Operation Rising Lion, the strike reportedly involved over 200 warplanes and 300 missiles hitting locations deep within Iran, resulting in casualties among senior military figures and nuclear scientists.
Iran's leadership has pledged a "powerful response," raising fears of regional escalation. The attack marks a significant shift in Israel's strategy, with analysts debating whether it represents a preemptive defense measure or a calculated expansion of geopolitical influence.
Xu Qinduo of The Hub convened experts to dissect the crisis. Mohammad Marandi of Tehran University framed the strike as "a dangerous provocation," while Zhou Rong from Renmin University of China warned of "ripple effects across Asian energy markets." Einar Tangen of the Taihe Institute emphasized diplomatic urgency: "This could redefine security paradigms from the Persian Gulf to the Taiwan Strait."
With global oil prices fluctuating and diplomatic channels strained, the international community watches for signs of de-escalation. The UN Security Council has called an emergency session, while regional powers urge restraint to prevent broader conflict.
