Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has struck targets in central and western Iran

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday, June 7, 2026, that it had struck military targets in central and western Iran. This action represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, occurring shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to retaliate against Iran. The specific targets and the extent of damage were not immediately detailed, but the strikes signal a direct engagement with Iranian territory following Iran's earlier missile launches at Israel. This development unfolds against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and international diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. The IDF's announcement underscores Israel's commitment to responding to perceived threats, while the timing, potentially influenced by external pressure, adds another layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape. The implications of these strikes are far-reaching, potentially drawing other regional actors into the conflict and further destabilizing an already volatile Middle East. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns mounting over a wider conflagration. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, in a separate interview, addressed claims about his foreign policy stance, stating he "didn't guarantee no war" and highlighting his administration's focus on military strength. This statement comes as the U.S. navigates its role in the escalating Middle East crisis, with differing perspectives on intervention and de-escalation.