This screengrab, taken from a video geolocated by CNN, shows smoke rising near a technology park housing multiple companies, including Microsoft, in Beer Sheva, Israel, on Friday, June 20, 2025.
The rising tension between Iran and Israel has triggered a global outcry. As the crisis deepens, the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog has stressed that recent findings about Iran’s nuclear activities are no grounds for military intervention. Instead, he calls for diplomacy.
Nuclear Concerns Spark Global Anxiety
Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), emphasized that the agency’s findings “hardly justify any military action.” In an interview, he said military responses are political moves and not guided by technical assessments.
His statement followed Israel’s use of an IAEA report to justify recent strikes on Iran. The report confirmed that Iran is enriching uranium beyond limits set for non-nuclear weapon states. However, Grossi clarified that there is no proof of a systematic nuclear weapons program in Iran.
Despite this, fears have escalated. Former US President Donald Trump recently claimed Iran was "very close" to developing nuclear weapons. These claims add to the growing tensions in the region.
Fordow Site in Focus as Strike Fears Mount
One of the most sensitive nuclear facilities in Iran is the Fordow site. Located deep in the mountains, it’s heavily fortified. Experts say only the US has the military power, including “bunker buster” bombs, to destroy it.
When asked about the risks of a possible US attack on Fordow, Grossi cautioned against it. “You can destroy buildings,” he said, “but you can’t destroy knowledge or technology.” His message was clear—military strikes won’t eliminate Iran’s scientific capability.
Iranian Scientists Targeted Amid Rising Violence
In the latest round of violence, Israel’s military claimed it had killed nine Iranian nuclear scientists. Iran confirmed that some scientists were killed, though it didn’t give numbers. These targeted killings are further escalating tensions.
Grossi also addressed accusations from Iran that the IAEA was spreading a “misleading narrative.” He dismissed the claims and assured that the agency remains neutral and committed to monitoring developments closely, especially after the Israeli attacks on nuclear sites.
Iran Plans Mass Protests in Response to Attacks
Meanwhile, Iran is preparing for a massive public response. Marches of “wrath” and “victory” are planned across the country. According to Iranian media, these nationwide protests are meant to display the people’s anger over Israel’s military strikes.
The events are scheduled to take place after Friday prayers—a significant time for public gatherings in Iran. Posters circulated by Tasnim News Agency describe the rallies as an “outcry of the people’s rage.”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei often speaks during such moments, delivering anti-Western rhetoric. However, security concerns may affect his decision to appear this time. Israel has openly threatened Khamenei, with Defense Minister Israel Katz saying he “cannot continue to exist.”
Iranian Missile Strike Hits Beer Sheva, Israel
Tensions reached a boiling point when an Iranian missile hit near Israel’s tech hub in Beer Sheva. The strike caused fires near a Microsoft office and damaged multiple buildings.
Emergency responders from Magen David Adom rushed to the scene. They reported flames, smoke, and significant property damage. Fortunately, no casualties have been confirmed so far.
A major hospital—Soroka Medical Center—was also hit earlier in Beer Sheva, further alarming residents. The city is strategically important, located near Israel’s Nevatim airbase in the Negev Desert.
Rescue Operations Continue in Beer Sheva
Search and rescue teams are actively combing through damaged buildings near the Beer Sheva tech park. Paramedics, firefighters, and police are coordinating efforts to ensure no one is trapped.
“We saw thick smoke, cars on fire, and major destruction,” said paramedic Dvir Ben Ze’ev. Emergency services have set up triage stations to support affected residents and workers.
Authorities are urging people to stay alert and follow safety protocols as threats of further strikes loom.
