ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated dramatically overnight as Iran launched a fresh series of missile and drone strikes targeting multiple locations across Israel, including Tel Aviv and Haifa. Air raid sirens sounded throughout the night, with Israeli air defense systems actively engaged in intercepting incoming threats.
Ninth Major Attack in Recent Weeks
According to Iranian state media, this marks the ninth coordinated strike by Iran on Israeli territory in recent weeks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed responsibility for the assault, stating the operations would continue through the morning as part of a broader retaliation for “Zionist crimes.”
“This is not the end,” the IRGC said in a statement. “The attacks will continue until morning as part of our campaign to avenge innocent lives lost.”
Casualties and Infrastructure Damage in Israel
The Bazan Group, an Israeli energy company, reported that its Haifa Bay refinery operations were suspended after an Iranian missile strike damaged a key power station. Three employees were killed in the incident, according to a regulatory filing.
In response, Israeli authorities activated emergency protocols and instructed citizens to take shelter in secure locations.
Iranian Officials Vow Continued Resistance
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a defiant message: “With God’s help, victory is near. We will defeat the Zionist entity.”
President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed similar sentiments, warning Israel of severe consequences: “They will pay the price for their foolish aggression. The flag that falls from one commander’s hands will be lifted by another.”
Pezeshkian also confirmed speaking with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan earlier in the day, reiterating that Iran “did not initiate the conflict” and is responding to Israeli attacks.
Israeli Strike Hits Iran’s State Broadcaster
Amid the ongoing exchange, Israeli air forces reportedly targeted the headquarters of Iran’s state media outlet, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), in Tehran. The strike disrupted live broadcasts and caused panic in the studio. Video footage circulated online showed an anchor abruptly fleeing mid-broadcast after a loud explosion shook the set.
Israeli Officials Signal Escalation
In a recent interview, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that dismantling Iran’s nuclear program remains Israel’s top priority. When asked about reports suggesting Israel considered targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader, Netanyahu neither confirmed nor denied, stating, “It’s not going to escalate the conflict — it’s going to end the conflict.”
“We are on the path to victory,” he added, emphasizing Israel’s right to act in self-defense and drawing parallels to past global threats. “We’ve targeted their top nuclear scientists. It’s basically Hitler’s nuclear team.”
Civilians in Both Nations on Edge
In Tehran, thousands of residents were seen fleeing the capital amid growing fears of Israeli airstrikes. Footage aired by Iranian state television showed heavy traffic on roads out of the city, with citizens stockpiling food and essential supplies.
The Israeli military has issued multiple warnings to Iranian civilians in targeted regions, advising them to relocate. Iranian authorities dismissed the advisories as “psychological warfare” and urged the public to remain calm.
As the conflict intensifies, regional and international observers continue to monitor the unfolding crisis closely, amid fears of further escalation and a broader regional war.
