Maryam Kamyab
Conflicts

Iran Strikes Back: Ballistic Missiles Target Israeli Cities

Global Leaders Urge Calm as Iran Strikes Israeli Cities

Jummah

Iran launched "Operation True Promise 3" on Friday, firing hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities in response to devastating Israeli attacks that killed top commanders and nuclear scientists. Sirens wailed across Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as explosions lit the night sky, marking the most direct confrontation between the nations in decades. Iranian state media reported downing two Israeli F-35 jets and capturing a pilot during the operation, though Israel denied these claims.

Retaliation for "Decapitation Strike"

The assault comes after Israel’s "Operation Rising Lion" destroyed Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility and eliminated Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami, aerospace commander Amir Ali Hajizadeh, and six nuclear scientists. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed to make Israel "regret its foolish act," emphasizing Iran’s right to self-defense under international law. At least 50 Iranian civilians were wounded in the initial strikes, including women and children at Tehran’s Chamran Hospital.

Regional Chaos and Civilian Toll

Israeli medics confirmed 15 injuries in Tel Aviv, including moderate wounds from missile impacts. Airlines suspended flights over Israel, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan as airspaces closed indefinitely. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Western calls for restraint, stating: "No corner of Israel will be safe from our justified response." Supreme Leader Khamenei warned of "severe punishment," accusing Israel of initiating a war it "cannot contain."

Global Reactions and Diplomatic Collapse

The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency session after Iran’s formal request, while world leaders pleaded for de-escalation:

  • Russia condemned Israel’s "unprovoked aggression"

  • China urged "maximum restraint"

  • EU warned of "regional catastrophe"
    U.S. Secretary Marco Rubio denied involvement but pledged to defend American interests, sheltering diplomats in Israel. Nuclear talks in Oman collapsed, with Trump admitting he gave Iran a "60-day ultimatum" before the attack.

Humanitarian and Strategic Fallout

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization confirmed "significant damage" at the Shahid Ahmadi Roshan enrichment site but stressed no radiation leaks occurred. Analysts warn Israel’s strikes may push Tehran toward weaponizing its nuclear program, violating Khamenei’s long-standing fatwa. Oil prices surged 7% amid fears of prolonged conflict, with Houthi rebels vowing to target U.S. and Israeli assets in solidarity.

SCROLL FOR NEXT