House "Squad" members are criticizing Israel's military action against Iran as U.S. officials warn Tehran not to respond to what Israel described as a preemptive strike.

As Donald Trump hobnobbed with lawmakers at the White House congressional picnic Thursday evening, Israel’s military was striking targets inside Iran just hours after the U.S. president had signaled that he preferred giving diplomatic talks another chance.

Tensions soared as Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes against Israel, following Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Explosions rocked Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, prompting air raid sirens and shelter warnings.

Following Israeli airstrikes that have significantly weakened Iran's military and nuclear capabilities, Tehran faces limited options for retaliation. While Iran launched missiles at Israel, most were intercepted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the evolving situation between Israel and Iran. Modi shared India's concerns and emphasized the need for peace restoration in the region.

Israel's leader Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken to some world leaders since the country attacked Iran, and is due to have talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin and UK's Keir Starmer.

Early Friday morning, local time, Israel launched dozens of strikes against Iran and declared a state of emergency, according to Defense Minister Israel Katz. "Following the State of Israel's preemptive strike against Iran,