Iran has launched a major retaliatory strike against Israel, firing hundreds of ballistic missiles and projectiles at cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The attacks come in response to Israel’s unprecedented airstrikes earlier in the day, which targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile sites, and senior military leaders.
Air raid sirens sounded across Israel on Friday evening as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed multiple waves of incoming missiles. The Iron Dome and other air defense systems were activated, intercepting many of the projectiles, but explosions and smoke were still reported in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Israeli police noted that while there have been no injuries reported so far in Tel Aviv, property damage has occurred and emergency services are on the scene.
Fires were reported near the Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv following the strikes. The IDF spokesperson warned residents to remain close to shelters and to follow all Home Front Command alerts until further notice, as the assault was ongoing with additional barrages expected.
The Iranian strikes are being described by Tehran as an “overwhelming retaliation” for the Israeli attacks earlier in the day, which reportedly killed top Iranian military commanders and damaged key nuclear infrastructure. Israel has declared a nationwide state of emergency, closed its airspace, and mobilized tens of thousands of troops in anticipation of further escalation.
The situation remains highly volatile, with both nations bracing for additional attacks and the risk of a broader regional conflict growing by the hour.
