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NukeClock

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Analysis and updates on events that shape nuclear risk.

Tehran skyline at dusk used as the hero image for analysis of who started the Iran-Israel war

who started the iran israel war: timeline, evidence, and what the sources show

who started the iran israel war is answered with a source-based timeline: Israel launched the first June 13, 2025 strikes inside Iran, followed by Iranian retaliation and a wider US-Iran escalation track.

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Israeli Air Force F-35I Adir stealth fighter in flight — the centerpiece of Israel's decisive technological edge over Iran

Iran vs Israel Military Power: A Complete 2026 Comparison

Iran vs Israel military power compared across every dimension — personnel, airpower, missiles, defense spending, and nuclear risk. See how these two Middle East rivals stack up in 2026.

iranisraelmilitarymilitary-comparisonmiddle-eastdefensenuclear-risk
Iranian flag over Tehran cityscape at sunset

Nuclear Threat Assessment: Where the Iran Crisis Goes From Here

With Iran's leadership decapitated, nuclear facilities damaged, and US forces engaged across the Gulf, NukeClock analysts examine the three most likely escalation scenarios and what each means for the global nuclear threat level.

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Smoke rising over Tehran skyline as seen from a rooftop with birds in flight following U.S.-Israeli airstrikes during Operation Epic Fury, March 2026

Trump Promises More Strikes on Iran as U.S. Adds to Forces in Mideast

President Trump has vowed to continue Operation Epic Fury against Iran, promising heavier strikes ahead as the Pentagon confirms ~50,000 troops and two carrier strike groups now in theater. Six U.S. service members have been killed and 18 seriously wounded on Day 3 of the conflict.

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Aerial view of smoke rising from targets in Tehran during US military strikes

US Deploys 50,000 Troops to Middle East as Operation Epic Fury Escalates

The Pentagon confirms a massive military buildup across the Persian Gulf region as President Trump pledges continued strikes against Iran. Two carrier strike groups, 120+ aircraft, and advanced missile systems now in theater.

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Massive smoke clouds over Tehran cityscape during military operations

Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes on US Bases Across the Persian Gulf

The IRGC fired over 170 ballistic missiles and 500+ drones at American military installations in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and five other countries — marking the most significant direct attack on US forces since World War II.

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Naval Incident Escalates Tensions in Disputed Waters

A naval confrontation in contested territory has prompted a reassessment of nuclear risk indicators.

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Smoke rising over Tehran skyline following airstrikes on government compound

Iran Confirms Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed in US-Israeli Strikes

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a coordinated US-Israeli airstrike on Tehran on February 28, 2026 — the first targeted killing of a sitting head of state in modern warfare. NukeClock moves 15 seconds closer to midnight.

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New Diplomatic Channel Opens Between Major Powers

A bilateral communication initiative signals potential de-escalation amid rising tensions.

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