Tel Aviv, June 18 (V7N) — In retaliation for Israeli airstrikes, Iran has launched a sustained wave of missile and drone attacks, causing mounting casualties in Israel. Conditions in Tel Aviv are reportedly beginning to resemble those in Gaza, as relentless Iranian bombardment leaves Israel with few options to de-escalate. According to a CNN analysis, the situation appears to be closing all avenues for a diplomatic or immediate military exit.

Iran’s hardened response has put Israel at a strategic crossroads, with some analysts warning the conflict is now heading toward a prolonged and potentially open-ended war.

Shift in Battlefield Momentum

Israel’s initial offensive against Iran delivered significant military gains, successfully targeting several senior Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists. However, by the end of the week, momentum on the battlefield appeared to be shifting.

Iran has launched waves of missile and drone attacks deep into Israeli territory, overwhelming parts of the Iron Dome defense system. Casualties have continued to rise, with dozens of Israelis reported dead and many more injured as of Tuesday.

“Tel Aviv is beginning to resemble Gaza,” one source told CNN, pointing to the deteriorating security environment in Israel’s commercial capital.

No Diplomatic Exit in Sight

Israeli officials are now reportedly questioning whether their ambitious objectives—particularly regarding the dismantling of Iran's nuclear capabilities—can still be achieved without significant long-term costs. The fear among Israeli analysts is that unless Iran halts its retaliation or agrees to re-enter negotiations over its nuclear program, the only remaining option may be to continue fighting indefinitely.

“Iran’s unyielding stance is pushing Israel into a conflict without a clear exit strategy,” the CNN report stated.

Escalation Despite Tactical Gains

While Israel’s military retains superiority and managed to strike key Iranian infrastructure without immediate resistance, Iran’s counteroffensive has shown unexpected resilience. Israeli citizens continue to endure air raid sirens and seek shelter across multiple cities.

Both nations appear entrenched in a high-stakes military standoff, and neither side has shown signs of backing down. The regional and global implications of this ongoing escalation are becoming more severe with each passing day.

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