Tensions Escalate as Iran and Israel Exchange Missile Strikes for Sixth Day
Iran and Israel continued to launch missile strikes at each other on Wednesday, marking the sixth consecutive day of escalating conflict between the two long-time adversaries. Early Wednesday morning, the Israeli military reported two waves of Iranian missiles targeting its territory, with explosions reportedly heard over Tel Aviv.
In response, Israel issued evacuation warnings to residents in the southwestern part of Tehran, stating that its air force would conduct strikes on Iranian military facilities. Reports indicated Israeli attacks on a university affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran.
Erdogan: Iran’s Response is “Legitimate”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel’s attacks on Iran, describing them as “crazed” and equivalent to “state terrorism.” He stated that Iran’s military response is legal and natural. Speaking before parliament, Erdogan expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution and offered Turkey’s assistance in mediating the crisis.
Israel Strikes 40 Sites in Iran
According to statements from the Israeli military, about 25 fighter jets targeted more than 40 Iranian missile infrastructure sites, storage facilities, and personnel across western Iran.
Iran Urges Neighbors to Secure Borders
Iranian border officials called on neighboring countries to prevent any infiltration attempts originating from their territory. Iran’s forces—including the border police, army, and IRGC—are closely monitoring border activity. Previous Israeli operations reportedly involved drone and car bomb attacks launched from within Iranian territory.
Putin Calls for Rapid De-escalation
Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with the Emirati leader, urging swift resolution to the conflict and expressing deep concern over the unfolding situation. Russia reaffirmed its readiness to help mediate between the parties.
Iranian President Sends Letter to Qatar
Qatar confirmed it had received a letter from the Iranian president, though the contents were not disclosed. Qatar is among the countries encouraging the United States to push for a ceasefire and revive nuclear negotiations.
Russia Warns U.S. Against Military Support for Israel
A senior Russian official warned that direct U.S. military assistance to Israel could dangerously escalate the crisis. Moscow stated it remains in contact with both Iran and Israel. Russia’s foreign intelligence head described the current situation as “critical.”
Khamenei Warns U.S. of Severe Consequences
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that the nation would not yield to threats or impositions. In a televised speech, he warned the U.S. that any military intervention would have “irreparable consequences,” stressing Iran’s resilience and history of resistance.
Iran Downs Israeli Drone and Jet
Iranian forces reportedly shot down an Israeli Hermes drone over Isfahan and destroyed a hostile F-35 fighter jet near Varamin. No official statement from Israel has been issued regarding these incidents.
Israel Facing Shortages in Missile Defenses
Reports suggest Israel is running low on Arrow interceptors, which are critical for defending against long-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. has been assisting with additional defense systems by land, air, and sea.
Iran Fires Hypersonic Missiles and Drone Swarms
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed to have fired hypersonic Fattah-1 missiles toward Tel Aviv, warning civilians in the city to brace for further attacks. These advanced missiles, capable of maneuvering mid-flight, are difficult to intercept. Iran also launched a drone swarm, with two drones intercepted over the Dead Sea.
Trump Issues Sharp Warnings
Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that American intelligence knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader and described him as an “easy target,” though added, “we’re not going to take him out—at least not for now.” He called for Iran to cease missile attacks and return to negotiations, warning that American patience is “wearing thin.”
U.S. Forms Task Force for Citizens in Middle East
In response to the escalating conflict, the U.S. government has established a 24/7 task force to assist American citizens in the region. The task force is coordinating diplomatic support and has issued over 30 security alerts across Middle Eastern countries.
China Criticizes U.S. Rhetoric
China criticized Trump’s recent calls for evacuations in Tehran and his aggressive rhetoric, accusing the U.S. of inflaming tensions. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated that such threats only serve to widen the conflict rather than help de-escalate the situation.
Civilians Urged to Evacuate Tehran
As missile exchanges continued, Trump publicly advised Iranian civilians to evacuate Tehran. The U.S. blamed Iran for rejecting renewed efforts at nuclear diplomacy, warning that continued aggression would only escalate the crisis further.
Middle East Tensions Surge as Leaders Trade Warnings and Strikes Intensify
U.S. President Donald Trump departed the G7 summit in Canada a day early to address the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The White House confirmed his early exit, and sources indicated he would convene a meeting with his National Security Council.
In a post on social media, Trump reiterated his long-standing position: “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”
Markets React Sharply to Escalation
Global financial markets responded swiftly. Oil prices surged while stock markets saw a decline as investor confidence was rattled. Earlier optimism that the conflict would remain contained quickly faded as tensions entered a fifth consecutive day.
“Middle East tensions are showing no signs of easing back, putting investors on high alert,” said one investment expert.
Trump stated that he was pursuing a “real end” to the conflict, not merely a temporary ceasefire.
Netanyahu Suggests Targeting Iranian Leadership
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested that assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would end the ongoing hostilities. When asked whether such a move would intensify the conflict, he replied, “It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict.”
He further claimed that Iran is pushing for a prolonged war that could bring the region to the brink of nuclear confrontation and stated that Israel’s actions are intended to stop this aggression.
Pakistan Condemns Israeli Strikes
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan met with Iran’s Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam during the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference. During the meeting, PM Sharif condemned the Israeli strikes on Iran and expressed solidarity with the Iranian people.
He extended condolences to the victims of the recent attacks and emphasized that the entire Pakistani nation stands with Iran during this critical time. He also highlighted his recent conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran at the United Nations Security Council.
Rising Casualties in Israel
Recent Iranian missile strikes resulted in five fatalities and 87 injuries, bringing the total number of Israeli casualties to 20. Among the deceased were two women and two men, all approximately 70 years old. Emergency responders have evacuated dozens to hospitals across central Israel.
Iran Refuses Talks Under Fire
Iran has informed mediators from Qatar and Oman that it will not engage in ceasefire negotiations while under active attack from Israel. According to an official familiar with the discussions, Iran insists on completing its retaliatory operations before considering diplomatic dialogue.
Fresh Iranian Strikes Hit Israeli Cities
On Monday morning, Iran launched a new round of retaliatory missile strikes targeting several Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa. Multiple buildings in Tel Aviv were damaged, and a fire broke out at a power plant in Haifa. Widespread power outages were reported in central regions.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards stated that this latest attack introduced a new tactic, reportedly causing Israel’s layered air defense systems to malfunction and target each other.
U.S. Officials: Trump Blocked Israeli Strike on Khamenei
Two American officials revealed that President Trump recently blocked an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The decision was reportedly made out of concern that such an act would dangerously escalate the ongoing confrontation between Israel and Iran.
Iran-Israel Conflict Intensifies as Diplomatic Channels Collapse
A senior U.S. administration official confirmed that Washington blocked an Israeli proposal to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. “Have the Iranians killed an American yet? No. Until they do, we’re not even talking about going after the political leadership,” said the official, who emphasized that top-level coordination with Israel continues amid the ongoing crisis.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran and Israel would reach peace “soon,” despite the rapid escalation in hostilities. “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal,” he wrote on his social media account. “We will have PEACE, soon.” He offered no specifics or evidence to support the claim, which contradicted Israeli statements that military operations would intensify.
Warnings and Strikes Escalate
Trump clarified that the U.S. was not involved in Israeli military strikes but issued a stern warning to Tehran: “If we are attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before.”
Iran responded with extensive retaliatory missile barrages, killing at least ten people and injuring over 200 in Israel. More than 35 people remain missing. Strikes targeted cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa, striking both military and strategic sites. Explosions and power outages were reported, with emergency services continuing rescue operations amid overwhelmed hospitals.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the use of Kheibar, Badr, and Emad missiles in the latest strikes. Sirens and blasts rocked major Israeli cities, with Israeli air defenses activated across the country.
Regional Tensions and Retaliation
The Israeli military reported that it had struck an underground missile site in Khorramabad, western Iran. The site, which contained surface-to-surface and cruise missiles, was reportedly featured in prior Iranian military footage. Senior Iranian officials connected to the site were allegedly eliminated in the strike.
Iranian media reported widespread activation of air defense systems over Tehran and six other provinces, including Hormozgan, Kermanshah, Lorestan, Qom, East Azerbaijan, and Khuzestan. Images circulated showing the aftermath of Israeli attacks, with reports of Israeli aircraft destroyed over Tehran.
Despite Iranian retaliatory strikes, Israel’s Defense Minister warned that continued missile attacks from Iran would trigger direct strikes on Tehran. “If Khamenei continues to fire missiles at the Israeli home front, Tehran will burn,” he said.
Nuclear Talks Collapse
Planned U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations in Muscat were abruptly canceled. The decision followed Israeli airstrikes targeting nuclear facilities and key military personnel in Iran. A senior official from the Trump administration confirmed the cancellation but said the U.S. remained committed to diplomatic solutions if Iran reengages.
New Israeli Offensive Declared
Israeli military leaders declared that “the path to Iran is now paved,” signaling a renewed phase of airstrikes. Attacks on Tehran are being planned, with officials stating that this is a decisive moment for Israel’s national security.
In Tehran, Iranian officials vowed continued retaliation. “This confrontation will not end with last night’s limited actions,” said one unnamed source. “The next actions will be very painful and regrettable for the aggressors.”
Air raid sirens continued to sound across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as waves of missiles struck Israeli territory.
International Threats and Warnings
Iran issued warnings to the U.S., U.K., and France, stating that any support to Israel in countering Iranian strikes would result in retaliation. Iranian forces threatened bases and naval vessels in the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, targeting any country deemed complicit in Israel’s military operations.
Two senior Iranian commanders—General Gholamreza Mehrabi and General Mehdi Rabbani—were confirmed killed in Israeli attacks. These deaths contributed to an overall toll of at least 78 Iranians killed since the onset of the conflict.
The U.S. military reportedly assisted Israel in intercepting Iranian missiles during the recent wave of attacks. Specifics of the operation remain classified, but American assets reportedly helped defend Israeli airspace from long-range threats.
Uncertainty Ahead
The conflict has brought the region to the brink of wider war, with airstrikes, assassinations, and nuclear tensions escalating by the hour. Efforts to mediate or resume diplomatic discussions have been derailed, and both sides are preparing for further confrontation.
As Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu declared, “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” the path forward remains deeply uncertain.
Israel and Iran Exchange Missile Strikes Amid High Tensions
Heavy Missile Barrages:
Israel’s military reported dozens of missiles launched by Iran overnight, with several intercepts confirming hits near Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, multiple explosions were heard in Tehran, including two projectiles hitting Mehrabad Airport—an air force base—causing visible flames and damage near key leadership sites.
Mutual Airstrikes Continue:
Iran, under the codename “Operation Honest Promise 3,” launched waves of hypersonic Fattah-1 missiles into Israeli shelters and sent a swarm of drones, some intercepted. In response, Israel initiated fresh airstrikes on Iranian targets, including nuclear facilities, missile factories, military commanders, and the Natanz uranium enrichment plant.
Covert Sabotage Inside Iran:
Alongside aerial strikes, Israel’s intelligence agency conducted covert missions targeting Iran’s missile sites and air defenses. Israel also closed Ben Gurion Airport and placed air defenses on high alert.
Drone Defense and Diplomatic Fallout:
Iran’s forces downed Israeli reconnaissance drones over northwestern areas. In reaction to the escalations, Iran has deemed U.S. nuclear dialogue “meaningless,” accusing Washington of facilitating Israeli aggression. Iran also launched over 100 drones in retaliation. Renewed Israeli strikes hit Tabriz, including its Shahid Fakuri airbase.
International Reactions:
- Pakistan’s National Assembly unanimously denounced the Israeli strikes, affirming solidarity with Iran and urging emergency UN and OIC sessions.
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attacks, offering condolences and urging action to prevent regional destabilization.
- A top U.S. official emphasized that America played no direct role in the strikes but reaffirmed its priority to protect American interests in the region.
Military and Strategic Developments:
- Israel mobilized tens of thousands of troops across borders, emphasizing the gravity of the campaign.
- Analysts warn that Israel may be depleting its Arrow missile interceptors for long-range threats.
- Israel’s campaign, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, is expected to continue until the perceived Iranian threat is neutralized.
Casualties and Human Impact:
- Israeli authorities reported at least five fatalities and 87 injuries, bringing the total death toll to 20 from Iranian missile attacks.
- On the Israeli side, a Friday night barrage injured 34 people—mostly minor wounds—and resulted in at least one death.
- Iran continues to experience retaliatory strikes with confirmed deaths of senior commanders, including Major General Hossein Salami (IRGC Commander) and Major General Mohammad Bagheri (Armed Forces Chief of Staff). Ameer Habibullah has been named the new Chief of Staff.
Leadership Speeches and Warnings:
- Ayatollah Khamenei condemned strikes on civilians and military figures as grave crimes, promising a “bitter and painful” response.
- President Trump, in interviews, warned that the U.S. would support Israel if Iran retaliates. He reiterated that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons and expressed hope for renewed diplomacy, stating, “We’re hoping Iran will return to the negotiating table.”
- He also cautioned that any U.S. intervention would follow only if Iranian actions directly threatened American citizens or forces.
