Tensions between Israel and Iran flared dramatically on Tuesday after Tehran launched a missile strike targeting Israeli military bases, prompting a stern response from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who vowed that Iran would "pay" for the attack.
The escalating situation has drawn widespread concern over the potential for a broader regional conflict.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the missile barrage, which it said targeted three military installations near Tel Aviv, as well as several air and radar facilities.
The IRGC boasted that "90 per cent" of the missiles had hit their targets, although Israeli authorities have yet to confirm any major damage or casualties.
In a strongly worded statement, Iran warned of "vast destruction" should Israel choose to retaliate.
"If Israel makes the mistake of responding, it will face crushing attacks," a spokesperson for the IRGC said.
The Iranian government framed the missile strike as a defensive action in response to what it described as repeated Israeli "aggressions" and an attack on Iran's sovereignty.
Iran linked its actions to the assassination of senior Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July, an operation widely attributed to Israeli forces.
"This is merely a glimpse of our strength," Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned, addressing Israeli leadership.
"Iran is not a warmonger, but it firmly opposes any threats. Do not provoke Iran," he added.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, however, was unequivocal in his response.
"Iran made a big mistake tonight and will pay for it. Whoever attacks us, we attack them," he said in a televised statement, hinting at an impending Israeli military response. Israel’s security cabinet convened late Tuesday to assess the situation and plan the next steps.
The missile strike prompted swift international reactions.
The United States, which had previously issued warnings about an imminent Iranian ballistic missile assault, called the strike "defeated and ineffective."
White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan condemned Iran’s actions and warned of "serious repercussions" should Tehran continue its aggression.
As tensions soared, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) ordered the evacuation of more areas in Lebanon, including parts of the capital, Beirut, as it continued its operations against Hezbollah.
Israel’s northern border has been a flashpoint in recent weeks, with repeated skirmishes between the IDF and the Iran-backed militant group, which has vowed to avenge the death of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, killed in an Israeli airstrike.
On Tuesday, Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles at Israel. Explosions were reported in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Jordan River Valley.
Despite the intensity of the attack, Israel’s advanced missile defence systems reportedly intercepted many of the incoming projectiles.
The US also aided in intercepting some missiles, contributing to the defence of Israeli airspace.
While no Israeli casualties were reported, a school in the city of Gadera sustained significant damage from a missile.
Meanwhile, a Palestinian was killed in the occupied West Bank as violence continued to escalate across the region.
Iran's missile strike follows its pledge to retaliate for Israeli attacks that had recently killed Hezbollah’s top leadership.
Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, was also believed to be among the targets of the Iranian assault.
Follow us
