Israel–Iran conflict enters second week as civilian toll rises, missile strikes escalate, and global diplomacy urges restraint

The ongoing air war between Israel and Iran has entered its second week, with no sign of either side backing down. On Friday, officials from Britain, France, Germany, and the European Union gathered in Geneva to meet with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in an attempt to defuse the growing crisis. This comes as U.S. President Donald Trump said a decision on possible American involvement would be made within two weeks.
Israel began striking Iranian targets last Friday, saying the attacks were aimed at halting Iran's nuclear ambitions. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks, insisting its nuclear program remains peaceful.
Rising death toll and targeted strikes
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in 639 deaths in Iran, including senior military figures and nuclear scientists. Iran's missile attacks have killed at least two dozen Israeli civilians, according to Israeli authorities. These figures could not be independently verified.
Israel's military has reportedly focused on Iranian missile systems and nuclear research facilities, aiming to damage the country's key infrastructure. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that while regime change in Iran is not an official goal, it could become a consequence if the Iranian public seeks it.
Iran, meanwhile, claims it is targeting Israeli military sites, though some strikes have hit civilian areas. On Thursday, a major hospital in Beersheba was struck. Iran said it was aiming for military offices nearby, but Israeli officials denied any such facilities were present.
Civilian damage and international concern
Early Friday, the Israeli military issued another missile alert. One missile directly hit a site in Beersheba, damaging apartment buildings and industrial areas. Paramedic Shafir Botner described extensive destruction and confirmed at least six people were injured. Footage from Israeli broadcaster Kan showed burning vehicles, damaged homes, and emergency workers conducting searches.
In response, Israel carried out strikes in Tehran targeting missile production and nuclear-related infrastructure. The military described the operations as part of an ongoing effort to reduce Iran's military capabilities.
Global reactions and uncertain U.S. role
As diplomatic discussions continue, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held meetings and calls with officials from Australia, France, Italy, and the U.K., reaffirming that Iran should never acquire nuclear weapons. Rubio's message was echoed by British Foreign Minister David Lammy, who described the situation as 'perilous' and stressed the urgency of de-escalation.
Trump's administration has not confirmed any direct intervention, though Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has been in repeated contact with Araqchi. Trump is expected to attend a national security meeting and may decide on military action within the next two weeks, though this timeline remains flexible.
Unrest within Iran and public sentiment
While international pressure mounts, Iran faces one of the biggest external threats since its 1979 revolution. However, domestic opposition groups have not mobilized protests amid the conflict. Human rights activist Atena Daemi, who previously served a prison term in Iran, said citizens are prioritizing safety. 'In these conditions, people are focused on protecting themselves, their families, and their communities,' she stated.With rising casualties, continued strikes, and international diplomacy underway, the Israel–Iran conflict is showing no signs of immediate resolution.

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