Israel released the first visual footage of its military strikes in Iran, thrusting the Middle East into a dramatic escalation of hostilities. The video, shared by the Israel Defense Forces, shows moments from a coordinated attack carried out with the United States against multiple targets inside Iranian territory, including military sites and infrastructure in and around Tehran.
Explosions and smoke rising over the city were widely reported as both nations struck in what was described as a pre-emptive operation to counter long-standing security threats posed by Tehran’s nuclear and missile programmes. Iran responded by launching missiles toward Israeli territory, triggering defensive interceptions and emergency alerts for civilians. Governments across the region have urged caution as tensions surge and further military moves remain possible.
“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the past few minutes, the Home Front Command has sent a precautionary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas,” IDF posted on X.
The missile launch came hours after Israel and the United States carried out a coordinated military operation inside Iran, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion. According to reports, the strikes targeted military sites, missile production facilities and areas near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s office. The name of the operation was decided upon by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to The Times of Israel.
Residents in Tehran reported powerful explosions, with several ministries in southern parts of the capital said to have been struck. The operation was described as a “pre-emptive” strike, intensifying already strained ties between Tehran and Jerusalem.
Earlier, Iranian officials vowed a “crushing response” following the joint offensive. While Tehran has not detailed the scale of its retaliation, the missile launch toward Israel signals a direct response in the widening confrontation.
Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency, moved hospitals to underground facilities and activated warning sirens. Authorities urged citizens to seek shelter immediately. Airspace over Iran, Israel and Iraq was closed, suspending all flights as the security situation deteriorated.
The escalation comes against the backdrop of stalled nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran in Oman. Weeks of diplomatic efforts had already been overshadowed by rising military posturing.
Governments across the region have issued advisories to their citizens. The Embassy of India in Tehran urged nationals to “exercise utmost caution,” “avoid unnecessary movements,” and “remain indoors”. Tourists in Jordan were advised to leave the country immediately due to the risk of flight disruptions.
Regional and international observers are closely monitoring developments as further military responses could influence stability across the Middle East in the coming hours and days.
