Kathmandu: Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated as Iran and Israel exchanged heavy missile fire over the past 48 hours, plunging the region into a dangerous conflict. Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds injured, with missile attacks continuing into Saturday night.

According to international media reports, Israel launched over 150 strikes on Iranian targets, including oil depots, gas refineries, and the Iranian Defense Ministry in Tehran and Bushehr. The Israeli strikes have reportedly killed 138 Iranians, among them 9 nuclear scientists and more than 20 military commanders. Over 350 people have been injured, and air defense systems have been activated in seven provinces, including the capital.

In retaliation, Iran fired more than 150 missiles at Israeli cities, targeting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Tamar gas field, and the Haifa petroleum refining center, according to The Times of Israel. Iran also claimed to have downed three Israeli F-35 fighter jets—a claim yet to be independently verified.

Israeli authorities have confirmed the death of five civilians and reported over 100 injuries as a result of Iran’s missile barrage. Among the casualties was a 60-year-old woman, killed during Iran’s second wave of ballistic missile strikes.

The conflict marks one of the most intense direct confrontations between Iran and Israel in recent history and has triggered concerns of a broader regional war. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are reportedly underway, but no formal ceasefire or truce has been agreed as of yet.