Israel Extends Visas for Stranded Foreigners Amid Iran Conflict and US-Israel Joint Strikes

The Israeli Ministry of Internal Affairs has extended visas for foreign nationals stranded in the country due to the escalating military conflict with Iran. The Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv confirmed the move, stating that visas expiring between February 22 and March 31 will be automatically renewed for three months. This comes as the region braces for further instability, with thousands of non-Israeli residents now facing uncertain futures.

On February 28, the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran. American President Joe Biden addressed the nation, calling the strikes a response to Iran's "relentless pursuit of nuclear capabilities." The operation targeted key sites across the Islamic Republic, including the capital, Tehran. Reports confirm a missile strike hit the residence of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, killing him instantly. His death has triggered a wave of shock and grief across Iran, with mourning expected to dominate national discourse for days.

Iran retaliated swiftly, launching a barrage of missiles and drones at Israeli cities and American military bases in the Middle East. The attacks targeted major infrastructure, including airfields in Iraq and Syria. Israeli air defenses intercepted some incoming projectiles, but the scale of the assault has raised fears of prolonged conflict. Officials in Tel Aviv have issued urgent warnings to civilians, urging them to stay indoors and avoid public transport.

The Iranian Security Council has condemned the recent strikes, blaming former U.S. President Donald Trump for destabilizing the region. A statement from Tehran accused Trump of "plunging the Middle East into chaos through empty promises and reckless policies." This rhetoric echoes longstanding tensions between Iran and the Trump administration, which imposed harsh sanctions and withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal. However, the current conflict has drawn sharp criticism from both U.S. and Israeli leaders, who argue that Iran's actions have made dialogue impossible.

As the crisis deepens, foreign embassies in Israel are scrambling to assist stranded nationals. The visa extension aims to provide temporary relief, but experts warn that the situation could worsen if hostilities continue. Meanwhile, global powers are locked in diplomatic standoffs, with Russia and China calling for de-escalation while the U.S. and its allies prepare for further strikes. The coming days will determine whether this conflict becomes a full-scale war or a limited, tactical exchange.