Multiple Air Raid Sirens in Tel Aviv as Iran Launches Missile Attacks
Within a single hour, the city of Tel Aviv was rattled by four air raid sirens as Iran unleashed a series of missile strikes targeting southern Israel. Amid the barrage, at least three fatalities were reported in Be'er Sheva, a major southern city that bore the brunt of the assault.
Emergency alerts warned residents to seek immediate shelter, with sirens blaring for close to a minute during each alert. Loud thudding sounds, indicative of Israel’s interception efforts against the incoming missiles, were frequently heard, reflecting the tense and volatile situation on the ground.
Devastation in Be'er Sheva
Video footage from Be'er Sheva revealed the aftermath of one missile hitting a residential complex—showing destruction marked by burnt vehicles, scorched trees, and collapsed building structures. Local responders managed to extract five individuals from the rubble, but the human toll remains a grim reminder of the conflict's cost.
Contradictory Signals Amid Ongoing Conflict
These attacks starkly contrasted with recent diplomatic overtures. Just hours before the missile salvo, Iran had hinted at a potential peace agreement with Israel. Reinforcing the complexity, the Iranian Foreign Minister expressed gratitude for the armed forces’ steadfast defense efforts late into the night, underscoring a simultaneous readiness to continue military action.
“The military operations of our powerful Armed Forces to punish Israel for its aggression continued until the very last minute, at 4 am. Together with all Iranians, I thank our brave Armed Forces who remain ready to defend our dear country until their last drop of blood,” said the Iranian Foreign Minister in an online statement.
He further clarified Iran’s stance, noting that while there was currently no ceasefire agreement, Iran had no desire to prolong the conflict if Israel ceased its hostilities by a specified deadline.
US President Announces Phased 24-Hour Ceasefire
In a surprising development, the US President announced what he described as a “complete and total” ceasefire between Iran and Israel after twelve days of escalating hostilities. This truce, according to his statement, would begin with Iran halting operations at 9:30 am IST, followed by Israel 12 hours later.
“It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE. I congratulate both countries on the stamina, courage, and intelligence to end what should be called ‘THE 12 DAY WAR,’” he posted on his social platform.
Despite this announcement, Israel has yet to publicly confirm or respond to the ceasefire claims, keeping the situation uncertain.
What Lies Ahead?
The missile strikes mark one of the most intense sustained assaults from Iran against Israel in recent days, occurring amid contradictory signals of both escalation and diplomatic efforts. With casualties mounting and tensions high, the coming hours remain critical in determining whether the fragile hope for peace will hold or further conflict will unfold.
