In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel has launched a large-scale missile attack against Iran, according to Israel’s defence minister.
Israeli military officials confirmed that air raid sirens were sounded across various parts of the country as a precautionary measure, warning citizens of the possibility of retaliatory missile launches from Iran. Authorities urged residents to remain alert and follow civil defence instructions.
Israeli broadcaster Channel 12, citing a senior security source, reported that the operation currently underway in Iran is a joint effort involving both Israel and the United States. While there has been no immediate official confirmation from Washington at the highest level, US media reports suggest American participation in the strikes.
The unfolding developments have triggered fears of a broader regional conflict, as both countries have a long history of hostility and proxy confrontations.
Live Updates
[1:44 PM] — Iranian missiles intercepted
The Israeli Defence Force reported that another volley of projectiles had been launched toward Israel, urging citizens to follow the directives of the Home Front Command strictly. The military instructed residents to remain in their protected spaces until an official announcement is made regarding their safety.
Additionally, an IDF spokesperson strongly warned the public against publishing or sharing the locations of vulnerabilities or any documentation of impacts. To reassure citizens, the military stated that its air defense systems are continuously detecting and intercepting incoming threats.
Iranian authorities have vowed to give a harsh response to Israel and the US bases in the Middle East.
[1:29 PM] — Explosions rock northern Israel
Explosions have been heard in northern Israel as the country attempts to intercept incoming missiles from Iran, following a nationwide attack in collaboration with the United States.
The blasts occurred shortly after the Israeli military announced its intention to deploy air defense systems to counter the Iranian fire. There are no immediate reports regarding damage or casualties from the ongoing conflict.
[1:22 PM] — Iran launches missiles towards Israel: Israeli army
The Israeli army has reported that missiles launched from Iran were detected heading toward Israel, triggering sirens in several areas of the country.
“The public is advised to follow the instructions of the Home Front Command,” they stated. “At this time, the Israeli Air Force is actively working to intercept and neutralize any threats as necessary.”
“While we strive for comprehensive defense, it is important for the public to remain vigilant and adhere to the guidelines issued by the Home Front Command. We request that everyone continue to follow these instructions.”
[1:00 PM] — Places where Israeli attacks targeted in Tehran?
So far, Israeli attacks on the Iranian capital have targeted:
- Ministry of Intelligence
- Ministry of Defence
- Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran
- Parchin military complex
[12:48 PM] — Iranian President is unharmed
The President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, was unharmed during the attacks by Israel and the U.S., according to the Iranian Mehr agency.
[12:39 PM] — US President Donald Trump
“We have started an extensive military operation in Iran; we will destroy the threat from the cruel Iranian regime,” – President Donald Trump.
“Our goal is to protect the American people by destroying the threats from the Iranian regime.” – President Donald Trump.
[12:34 PM] — Iran’s response will be crushing
Tehran is preparing for retaliation, and the response will be crushing, an Iranian official tells Reuters.
[12:25 PM] — Assault Expected to Last Four Days
The New York Times reported that the first phase of the assault on Tehran is expected to continue for up to four days. The report suggested that the operation is structured in stages, indicating a sustained military campaign rather than a single retaliatory strike.
[12:17 PM] — Strikes Reported in Multiple Cities
According to Tehran Times, Israeli strikes have targeted several Iranian cities, including Qom, Khoramabad, Esfahan and the capital Tehran. Explosions were reported in multiple locations, though the full extent of damage remains unclear.
[12:15 PM] — Civilians Affected in Tehran
Iranian media outlets reported that civilians were among those impacted by the strikes in Tehran. Casualty figures have not yet been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have not released an official toll.
[12:05 PM] — US Participation Reported
The Wall Street Journal, citing a US official, reported that American forces participated in the operation and were conducting strikes alongside Israeli forces. This development, if formally confirmed, would mark a significant escalation in direct US military involvement.
[12:00 PM] — Khamenei Not in Tehran During Attack
Reuters reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was not in Tehran at the time of the attacks. His current location has not been officially disclosed.
Regional and Global Implications
The strikes come amid already heightened tensions across the region, raising concerns about a potential multi-front confrontation involving allied groups and regional powers.
Israel has repeatedly accused Iran of expanding its military footprint across the Middle East and supporting armed groups hostile to Israeli interests. Iran, for its part, has condemned Israeli actions and vowed to respond decisively to any aggression.
With air defence systems activated and diplomatic channels under strain, international observers warn that the coming hours will be critical. Any confirmed joint US-Israel operation could significantly reshape the geopolitical landscape and trigger broader retaliation.
As the situation continues to unfold, governments worldwide are closely monitoring developments, with calls for restraint growing louder to prevent a wider regional war.
