Tel Aviv [Israel]: Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated sharply as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel in multiple barrages on Saturday, according to The Times of Israel. The missile strikes have led to injuries and significant damage across several Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv.
So far, nine impact sites have been reported, with at least 22 people injured, including two in serious condition and two in moderate condition, while the rest suffered minor injuries or stress-induced trauma, according to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical service.
Iran’s missile assault marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict, with Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz declaring that Tehran had “crossed red lines after it dared to fire missiles at civilian population concentrations in Israel.” Katz vowed a heavy price would be exacted from the Iranian regime in retaliation.
The IDF’s international spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani, confirmed that Israel responded with direct strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in Isfahan and Natanz.
“We can now confirm, IDF has carried out strikes against the nuclear plant in Isfahan. This is in addition to operations in Natanz,” Shoshani posted on X.
The missile barrage triggered alerts nationwide, as the IDF stated earlier in the day that ‘all of Israel is under fire’ amid Iran’s unprecedented assault. The attack has caused damage to civilian infrastructure, including a high-rise tower in Tel Aviv and a home in northern Israel, where falling debris ignited a brush fire. Rescue services pulled two civilians trapped in a damaged building in the Tel Aviv area.
A US official confirmed American military assistance in intercepting Iranian missiles over Israel, citing the safety of “several hundred thousand Americans living in Israel” as a priority. Washington’s involvement underscores the grave international implications of the crisis.
The situation remains fluid, with fears of a broader regional conflict growing as both nations exchange military blows in one of the most severe confrontations in years.