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Iran has launched missile strikes against Israel in retaliation for a significant Israeli attack on Iran's nuclear and military sites, which resulted in the deaths of at least three top Iranian military officers, raising concerns of a wider conflict. The U.S. is assisting Israel by intercepting missiles fired by Iran, a measure it has taken in previous attacks, as President Donald Trump met with his national security team to address the situation. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of de-escalation, saying, "I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate."Sina Azodi from George Washington University highlighted the unprecedented nature of Israel's attack, stating, "That has never happened before. The Israelis attacked residential buildings in Tehran." Azodi expressed concern that the U.S. could be drawn into the conflict, noting, "Although the US has said that we were not involved in the attack, the Iranians don't see it that way. And again, my concern is that when they respond, they will also attack American interests."Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strikes, warning of the potential for Iran to produce a nuclear weapon soon."It could be a year, it could be within a few months, less than a year. This is a clear and present danger to Israel's very survival," Netanyahu said.President Donald Trump, via social media, warned that Israel's next planned attacks would be "more brutal" and urged Iran to negotiate a deal with the U.S. on its nuclear program "before it's too late."Rep. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey expressed hope for de-escalation, saying, "This is a show of force and hopefully Iran will come to the table now and instead of playing games as they've been playing, actually make an agreement to disarm."Iran has vowed "severe" retaliation against Israel, while Israel has committed to continuing its military operations until the threat from Iran is removed.