June 24:
In a significant escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, Iran launched more than 250 missiles at Tel Aviv and other strategic locations across Israel early Tuesday morning as part of a military operation code-named “True Promise III.” The offensive comes in retaliation for Israel’s recent airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, which resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian commanders.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the missile strike, stating that it was a “direct and legitimate response to Zionist aggression.” Iranian state media reported that the attack involved a combination of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, targeting military and strategic infrastructure within Israeli territory.
According to Israeli defence officials, the Iron Dome and other advanced air defence systems were activated immediately. However, the sheer volume and coordination of the strike reportedly overwhelmed the systems, allowing a significant number of projectiles to breach Israel’s airspace and strike populated and critical zones, including parts of Tel Aviv.
Emergency services in Tel Aviv confirmed multiple explosions across the city. Hospitals have been placed on high alert, with dozens of civilians reportedly injured due to falling debris and shockwaves. Authorities have advised residents to stay in shelters and avoid travel until further notice.
“This is one of the largest and most complex missile attacks Israel has ever faced,” said a senior official from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). “Our defence systems intercepted many threats, but several managed to get through, causing damage.”
The Israeli cabinet held an emergency meeting in response to the attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the Iranian strike and warned of a strong and swift retaliation. “We will not allow Iranian aggression to go unanswered,” he stated.
The United Nations has called for an emergency Security Council meeting amid growing fears of a full-scale war in the region. The United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have urged both sides to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could spiral into a regional conflict.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah and other Iran-backed militias praised the Iranian operation, with some analysts warning that further coordinated attacks from Lebanon or Syria could follow.
