Iran Launches Renewed Missile Attacks on Israel
In a sharp escalation of hostilities, Iran has launched a fresh round of missile attacks targeting Israel, marking the third retaliation within 24 hours. This offensive, dubbed "Honest Promise 3," comes in response to recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure.
Early Saturday, Iranian state media reported multiple missile launches toward Israeli cities following warnings from Israel’s military that missiles had been detected originating from Iranian territory.
Context Behind the Retaliation
The surge in violence stems from Israeli operations described by officials as the nation’s largest-ever military offensive in Iranian territory. Over the past week, Israel executed a series of sophisticated strikes deep inside Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, command centers, and key personnel. Several senior Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists were reportedly killed in these raids.
Supreme Leader Khamenei’s Vow Against Israel
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the nation, condemning the Israeli strikes as a grave violation demanding decisive reprisal. He emphasized, "We will not allow them to escape the consequences of this significant wrongdoing." Khamenei stressed that Iran’s military is fully prepared to respond and warned, "Do not think this attack ends here; they initiated the conflict."
Impact on Israeli Cities
The Iranian missile barrages have profoundly impacted major Israeli urban centers, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Air raid sirens blared as loud explosions echoed through the cities, some from intercepted missiles and drones, others from direct hits.
Israeli authorities urged residents to seek immediate shelter as structures shook from blasts. One missile reportedly struck a residential area in central Israel, injuring 10 people.
Escalating Regional Tensions
This cycle of strikes and counter-strikes marks a dangerous intensification in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The rapid succession of attacks raises concerns about a broader regional confrontation given the strategic stakes involved.
Observers note that the latest phases of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion represent unprecedented penetration into Iranian territory, signaling a new chapter in the clandestine warfare between the two nations.
Summary of Key Events:
- Israeli air raids targeted Iranian nuclear and military sites, killing key figures.
- Iran launched multiple missile waves at Israeli cities under the operation "Honest Promise 3."
- Tel Aviv and Jerusalem experienced multiple explosions amidst sirens and air defenses.
- Islamic Republic’s leadership vows continued retaliation, escalating risks of wider conflict.
