Payam Javan: Israel is suspected of launching a retaliation attack on Iran following Iran’s recent missile and drone strikes against Israel. Explosions were reported near Iran’s Isfahan, a key site in its nuclear program, and air defenses were activated across Iran.

Iranian officials downplayed the attack, attributing it to air defense systems engaging a suspicious object. Similar explosions were reported in Iraq and Syria.

Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a G-7 meeting in Italy, avoided directly acknowledging the attacks, emphasizing de-escalation efforts. The United States, meanwhile, announced further sanctions on Iran targeting its drone programs and steel industry, with Blinken suggesting more measures from G-7 countries in the future.