Tensions Surge as Iran and Israel Trade Blows, Putin Urges Restraint Amid Espionage and Nuclear Claims

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel during a media roundtable in Saint Petersburg. He emphasized that Russia was not seeking to impose a solution but merely sharing its perspective on possible peaceful outcomes. Putin insisted that only the political leadership of Iran and Israel should determine how to resolve the crisis.

In response to a reporter's question, Putin clarified that Iran had not requested Russian assistance. His statement suggests that Russia is not looking to intervene and prefers to remain diplomatically neutral unless officially invited. This cautious stance aligns with Russia’s broader approach to volatile regional conflicts.

Meanwhile, Iran has stepped up efforts to dismantle what it claims is an Israeli spy network operating within its borders. Police Commander Ahmad Reza Radan announced that significant damage had been done to this network, and one individual connected to Mossad was arrested in the western province of Kordestan.

Iranian authorities have also reported a wave of arrests tied to alleged Israeli operations. These detentions span several provinces, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Markazi. Although the exact number of individuals detained has not been disclosed, Iranian officials say the actions are part of a nationwide crackdown on foreign intelligence activity.

Among the latest incidents is the arrest of a foreign national accused of filming the Bushehr nuclear power plant for Mossad. The suspect’s nationality has not yet been revealed, but the case has heightened public concern over foreign surveillance targeting Iranian nuclear sites and infrastructure.

In a stern warning, Iran’s Attorney General’s Office declared that anyone found collaborating with Israel would face the harshest penalties allowed under the law. On Monday, this warning turned into action when a man accused of working for Mossad was executed. The government continues to send a strong message of zero tolerance.

On the Israeli side, military officials reported that more than 20 targets in Tehran were hit in recent airstrikes. The Israel Defense Forces said the locations included missile and nuclear-related facilities that contribute to Iran’s weapons programs and hostile actions toward Israel. Israel also claims to have intercepted several missiles fired from Iran.

In the United States, the debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions has resurfaced. Former President Donald Trump insisted that Iran is nearing the creation of a nuclear weapon. His remarks contradict the assessment of his former Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, who testified that Iran’s nuclear weapons program remains suspended since 2003. Trump rejected her view, maintaining his stance.