Israel–Iran conflict reaches dangerous phase, PM Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘No one can dictate Donald Trump’

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has entered a critical and dangerous phase, with tensions escalating rapidly across the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press briefing, asserted that Israel is taking independent decisions to ensure its national security.

Responding to allegations that Israel is dragging the United States into the conflict, Netanyahu took a sharp dig, questioning whether anyone believes that a leader like Donald Trump can be dictated to. He emphasized that the US President acts solely in America’s national interest.

US suffers significant military losses

According to a Bloomberg report, the United States has faced notable losses in its air capabilities since the beginning of the conflict. As many as 16 US military aircraft have reportedly been destroyed, including 10 advanced MQ-9 Reaper drones, which were shot down by Iranian air defense systems.

The report also highlighted that a significant portion of the damage was caused due to technical failures and instances of “friendly fire.” In one such incident in Kuwait, three F-15 fighter jets were downed due to accidental fire by allied forces.

Multiple incidents raise concerns

In another major incident, a KC-135 refueling aircraft exploded mid-air, resulting in the death of all six crew members on board. Additionally, five tanker aircraft were damaged in an Iranian missile strike targeting a military base in Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported that Iran launched another major missile attack shortly before midnight on Thursday. Following the strikes, warning sirens were sounded across Jerusalem, central Israel and parts of the West Bank, triggering panic among civilians.

The situation continues to evolve, with fears growing that the conflict could further intensify and impact regional as well as global stability.