Iran launched a massive missile attack on Tel Aviv on Friday morning. Earlier, Israel had struck Iran’s key military and nuclear facilities in Operation Rising Lion. That strike killed several senior Iranian military leaders.
As a result, Iran responded forcefully. Its missiles targeted both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, according to media from both countries.
Netanyahu Issues a Stern Warning
Shortly after the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “More is on the way.” He warned that destroying Iran’s nuclear sites was “just the beginning.”
Later, in another message, Netanyahu declared, “The regime does not know what hit them, or what will hit them. It has never been weaker.”
Tehran Shaken by Explosions
Meanwhile, explosions rocked northern Tehran. Iran’s state news agency, IRNA, confirmed the blasts. Earlier in the evening, Israel claimed that Iran had launched nearly 100 drones in waves.
Although many were intercepted, reports suggested that some drones managed to breach Israel’s advanced defenses.
Tel Aviv Caught in Missile Fire
Around 9 PM local time, sirens blared throughout Tel Aviv. As people rushed for shelter, emergency alerts filled their phones.
About 30 minutes later, Israel’s Arrow missile defense system intercepted several Iranian missiles mid-air. However, one missile struck a tall residential tower near central Tel Aviv.
Consequently, windows shattered, steel rods twisted, and parts of the building collapsed. Firefighters quickly arrived and began rescue operations.
Rising Casualties and Injuries
According to The Times of Israel, two people were critically injured. Emergency teams rushed to five different impact sites. By 10 PM, officials confirmed that 15 people had been wounded.
Khamenei Promises ‘Heavy Blows’
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the nation just before the attacks. He vowed, “The armed forces of the Islamic Republic will inflict heavy blows upon this malevolent enemy.”
He also warned that the Israeli strikes would “bring it to ruin.”
Iran’s Military Chief Threatens Retaliation
Moreover, Iran named Mohammad Pakpour as the new head of the Revolutionary Guards. His appointment came after Israel killed his predecessor. Pakpour warned that Iran would “open the gates of hell,” as fears of a prolonged regional war continued to grow.
Israel Condemns Iran’s Actions
Following the missile attack, Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz accused Iran of “crossing red lines.” He criticized Tehran for targeting civilian areas. Still, it’s important to note that earlier Israeli strikes had also hit Iranian residential zones.
Katz said firmly, “We will continue to defend the citizens of Israel and ensure that the Ayatollah regime pays a very heavy price for its heinous actions.”
Iran Reports Heavy Losses
At the United Nations, Iran’s envoy Amir Saeid addressed the Security Council. He said Israeli airstrikes had killed 78 people, including high-ranking officials. He also mentioned that over 320 others were injured—most of them civilians.
Netanyahu Vows Continued Attacks
Later that night, Netanyahu released another video statement. He listed Israel’s recent victories: “We have taken out top military commanders, senior nuclear scientists, the Islamic regime’s most significant enrichment facility and a large portion of its ballistic missile arsenal.” He ended with a warning: “More is on the way.”