https://indiannewslink.co.nz/israel-launches-a-major-offensive-and-iran-retaliates/ “The Israeli operations come against the backdrop of a series of inconclusive nuclear talks between the United States and Iran. These negotiations began in mid-April at US President Donald Trump’s request and aimed to reach a deal within months. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposed the talks, pressing for military action instead as the best option to halt Iran’s nuclear programme.”- Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, at the Australian National University, Canberra