The sky over Israel lit up in a haunting glow as Iran launched a massive barrage of at least 180 missiles late Tuesday night, marking another dangerous chapter in the long-standing conflict between the two nations. The attack comes amidst a volatile situation in the Middle East, threatening to escalate into a full-scale regional war.
As the air raid sirens went off across Israel at night, residents rushed into bomb shelters, witnessing the missile trails illuminating the night sky.Despite the scale of the attack, Israel reported only minor damage and few injuries. However, the psychological impact was significant, as the nation warned of potential further escalation.
In the West Bank, one man was killed amid the chaos, though the exact circumstances remained unclear. Israel, meanwhile, vowed swift retaliation, warning that Iran had crossed a line.
Iran declared its missile attack complete but issued a warning with foreign minister Abbas Araqchi saying on X, “Our action is concluded unless the Israeli regime decides to invite further retaliation. In that scenario, our response will be stronger and more powerful.”
The missile attack intensified tensions that had been escalating for months. Israel had recently targeted Hezbollah in Lebanon in response to the group’s persistent rocket fire. The Israeli military had even conducted a “limited ground incursion” in southern Lebanon to halt the Iran-backed militant group’s attacks, which mirrored the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Both Hezbollah and Hamas, with significant support from Iran, have remained steadfast in their assaults. Hezbollah has pledged to continue its rocket fire until Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza. Israel, however, remains determined to strike Hezbollah until displaced residents from the northern border can safely return home.
The United States reaffirmed its support for Israel, promising that Iran would face “severe consequences” for the missile attack. The international community also responded, with the United Nations Security Council scheduling an urgent meeting and the European Union calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent a wider war.