Israel Hits Iranian Infrastructure and Nuclear Site Despite U.S. Call for Pause

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified airstrikes across Iran, targeting a power plant, two steel factories, and a civilian nuclear facility. These operations occurred despite President Trump’s recent announcement of a 10-day pause on strikes against energy infrastructure. The IDF stated the campaign has successfully targeted over 1,000 locations, including production lines and research facilities, aimed at dismantling Iran’s military-industrial complex. Concurrently, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released new footage of American strikes targeting Iranian military assets. Amid the escalating conflict, Iran has undergone a significant leadership change, appointing Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as the new Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council following the death of Ali Larijani. In a move signaling potential retaliation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a direct warning to residents in the Gulf region, advising them to stay away from U.S. forces and American installations to avoid becoming collateral damage. The humanitarian impact of the conflict is growing, as the destruction of steel and power facilities threatens to disrupt civilian manufacturing and energy access within Iran. Diplomatic tensions remain high as Iran continues to use unconventional propaganda, including missiles inscribed with messages to international partners. While there are no new reported advancements in Iran’s nuclear program beyond the recently struck civilian site, the economic consequences of infrastructure damage are expected to impact global energy and metals markets.