Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically as Iran launched a massive retaliatory strike on Israel in response to recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities, particularly the Fordow site.
Missile sirens rang out across Tel Aviv, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Safad, and Beisan, as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) unleashed a barrage of Kheyber-Shakan, Emad, Qadr, and Fattah-1 missiles, alongside drone swarms.
Iranian state media confirmed the use of solid and liquid-fuel missiles, describing the wave of attacks as a tactical penetration of Israel’s air defense shield.
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In retaliation, Israel conducted airstrikes on six Iranian airports and key military targets in Tehran and Kermanshah, including radar and missile systems.
So far, 24 Israeli civilians have been killed, and hundreds injured. Iran claims over 400 civilian deaths from Israeli attacks since June 13.
In a significant development, Iran shot down an Israeli Hermes drone over Lorestan province, dealing a symbolic blow to Israel’s surveillance capacity.
Meanwhile, Iran’s top military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari warned U.S. President Donald Trump, calling him a “gambler” and vowing, “You may start this war, but we will end it.”
Despite threatening rhetoric, Iran has not yet attacked U.S. bases or ships, though its parliament has approved a proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route. Global oil prices briefly surged but stabilized around $76.64 per barrel.
Amid rising fears of broader conflict, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to coordinate strategy.
As Israel and Iran continue exchanging missile fire, the world watches anxiously, fearing a descent into full-scale regional war.
