Israel-Iran tensions escalated on Saturday following deadly missile strikes on Jerusalem that killed three and injured dozens. In the aftermath of the attacks, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, gave a threatening warning to Tehran, “Tehran will burn.”
The threat was issued following an urgent assessment meeting with Israel’s military chief of staff. “If (Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali) Khamenei continues to shoot missiles at the Israeli home front — Tehran will burn,” Katz stated. “Iran will pay a severe price for injuring Israeli citizens.”
Iran Retaliates with Missile and Drone Salvo again Israel
Within hours, Iran retaliated with successive waves of ballistic missiles and armed drones on major Israeli cities. Air raid sirens wailed in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as lights filled the sky. A number of buildings rattled hard, compelling residents into shelters for hours.
Although Israel’s air defense systems downed most of the projectiles, a few resulted in major damage and casualties. Multiple injuries and property damage were reported in various areas by authorities.
This escalation is taking place amid the Israeli-Palestinian war in Gaza, which was ignited by the attacks of October 7 by Hamas. The recent attacks added to the climate of fear and uncertainty already engulfing Israeli society.
Netanyahu: We Will Eliminate Iranian Threat
On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced his government’s determination to neutralise any Iranian threat. “Israel is not actively seeking regime change in Tehran,” he said, “but we would certainly welcome it.”
Netanyahu also urged Iranian citizens to stand against their regime, saying the current leadership poses a threat not only to Israel but to the region at large.
Fear of Full-Scale Regional War Grows
The two countries have signaled that military action is imminent. Diplomats from world powers have yet to dampen the violence. Experts are cautioning that the conflict could escalate into a full-blown war if either side does not retreat.
While the world waits with bated breath for possible escalations, the global community insists on restraint — but with limited success on the ground.
