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Full Story Israel’s war with Iran: what does it want?
Jun 17, 2025
Julian Borger, Senior International Correspondent for The Guardian, shares on-the-ground insights from Tel Aviv amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses Israel's evolving war aims, highlighting the shift in focus from nuclear threats to potential regime change. The psychological impact on civilians is underscored, revealing the toll on both nations. Borger also explores the implications of U.S. involvement and the effectiveness of Israel's missile defense systems in this fraught environment.
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War Escalates to City Focus
- Israel's war against Iran has evolved from targeted strikes to a wider city-focused conflict.
- The evacuation order in northern Tehran signals a new, uncertain war phase resembling Gaza and Lebanon conflicts.
Iranian Fear and Flight
- Iranians are terrified under constant Israeli drone surveillance, a new nightmare since the 1980s Iran-Iraq war.
- Many are fleeing Tehran, creating petrol queues as families seek safety elsewhere.
Israel's War Aims Questioned
- Israel has aerial superiority but can't fully stop Iranian missile retaliations.
- Debate grows over Israel's shifting war aims: nuclear program destruction or regime change.