In a dramatic escalation, Iran fired 30 missiles at Israel just hours following the US bombing of three of its key nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. The aggressive action by Tehran comes even as US President Donald Trump issued a firm warning against retaliation.
At least 11 people were injured in the new missile attacks, which hit central Israel early yesterday morning, reports Israeli authorities. The attacks open a perilous new page in the swiftly escalating war between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Missiles Strike Central Israel
The missile barrage began around 7:30 am local time (0430 GMT). Iranian state television interrupted its regular programming to announce the attack, calling it a response to the “occupied territories.” The missiles, launched in two waves, managed to hit targets across Israel—including a direct strike in the central region.
Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service said 11 were hospitalized. One of the wounded, a 30-year-old man, was moderately injured when shrapnel struck his upper torso. KAN 11, Israel’s public broadcaster, broadcast a scene of a badly damaged building ringed with debris and rubble.
Tehran’s Swift Retaliation Sends Clear Message
This missile strike was not a retaliatory delay—it was rapid, deliberate, and immediate. Iran did not delay reacting after US aircraft bombed its most sensitive nuclear sites overnight. The Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan facilities lie at the heart of Iran’s uranium enrichment programme. Iran has indicated that it will no longer remain passive in the face of aggression as it hit back so promptly.
Iranian television regularly pointed to the extent of the response, with a presenter announcing on television, “30 missiles have been fired at Israel from Iran,” referencing unidentified sources.
Trump’s Warning Ignored
President Trump had threatened Iran not to respond after the US-led assault. But Tehran’s leadership appears to have disregarded the threat. The missile attack indicates that Iran will risk further escalation, even at the cost of direct confrontation with Israel and the United States.
The next few days could witness some more military exchanges as tensions escalate. What is certain is that diplomacy has all but disintegrated—for now, missiles are speaking.”.