Middle Eastern tensions reached new heights this weekend as Israel and Iran engaged in unprecedented cross-border missile strikes, marking a dangerous escalation in regional hostilities. The exchange began after Israel conducted its largest-ever military strike on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, killing several senior officials.
Retaliation and Response
Iran launched retaliatory airstrikes late Friday, with explosions reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Israeli authorities activated air raid sirens nationwide, urging residents to seek shelter as missiles lit up skies over major cities. The Israeli military reported intercepting most of the "fewer than 100 missiles" fired, with U.S. forces assisting in neutralizing some projectiles.
Civilian Impact
Residential areas bore the brunt of the attacks, including a high-rise apartment block in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv. Israeli rescue services confirmed 34 injuries and one fatality in the Gush Dan region, with firefighters working to free trapped residents from damaged buildings.
International Concerns
The strikes have intensified fears of broader regional conflict, despite recent Israeli military successes against Iran-aligned groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. In Tehran, explosions rocked Mehrabad Airport as Iran activated its air-defense systems, while smoke billowed from the facility according to local reports.
