Israel's Attack on Iran: The Human Cost of Conflict

A fresh Iranian missile barrage today damaged Soroka hospital in southern Israel and hit Tel Aviv suburbs, wounding dozens. Israel also continued its strikes against Iran, which began with the June 13 surprise attack targeting air defences, missile launchers and nuclear assets. After Donald Trump signaled clearly that the U.S. Would join with Israel to attack Iran —especially its nuclear facilities—global tensions have spiked. The prospect of such an attack. Israel has so far killed more than 450 people , according to Human Rights Activists in Iran, a nongovernmental organisation that monitors the country. The Western political establishment calls this Israel’s right to self-defence. Israel's escalating conflict with Iran is draining the nation's resources, with daily military costs reaching approximately $725 million . The initial days of combat saw expenses soar to $1.45 billion , covering both offensive operations and defensive measures. The world watched as Israel launched what it called a “major operation” against Iran , targeting nuclear facilities, scientists, and senior military officials. The war in Gaza had cost Israel over 250 billion shekels ($67.5 billion) by the end of 2024. The initial Iran conflict cost an estimated 5.5 billion ($1.6 billion) shekels in just two days. The Israeli attack on Iran 's nuclear program and military assets and Iran 's responding missile strikes represent a significant escalation in the long-standing tensions between the two nations. RAND experts provide insights into the strategic, diplomatic, and economic dimensions of this unfolding crisis.