Explosions Shake Tel Aviv and Jerusalem After Israeli Warning of Iranian Missile Strike

Minutes after the Israeli military alerted citizens of incoming Iranian missiles, loud explosions were heard reverberating through Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The alerts, issued shortly before 1:30 a.m. local time, prompted thousands of residents to take shelter as sirens wailed across the cities. Moments later, the sound of detonations confirmed the missiles had struck.

Reuters footage captured the moment a projectile hit Tel Aviv, sending a plume of smoke skyward. News agencies including Al Jazeera and Al Arabiya confirmed that Iranian missiles had successfully breached Israeli airspace, triggering Israel’s sophisticated air defense systems and sparking fears of further attacks. The sky was lit by interceptor trails and fireballs as systems attempted to neutralize the threat.

The assault, dubbed “Operation True Promise III” by Tehran, was a direct response to Israel’s earlier operation, “Rising Lion,” which targeted Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. Iranian officials claimed the Israeli strikes had killed key IRGC commanders and nuclear scientists, including senior figure Hossein Salami, significantly escalating tensions between the regional rivals.

Despite Israel’s advanced missile defenses, including the Iron Dome and U.S.-backed systems, several warheads evaded interception. Some landed in densely populated areas of Tel Aviv and nearby neighborhoods, causing significant structural damage. Authorities reported multiple injuries from debris and shockwaves, as windows shattered and buildings shook.

Iranian sources declared that more than 150 ballistic missiles were fired in two waves, aiming at major Israeli cities. However, Israeli defense officials countered that fewer than 100 missiles entered their airspace due to effective joint interception. Still, the breach of urban targets revealed vulnerabilities and raised fears of further escalation.

Early casualty reports showed significant human impact. Iranian state media stated that at least 78 Iranians were killed and over 320 wounded from Israeli airstrikes. In Israel, 22 injuries were confirmed from the missile impacts, including two critical cases caused by shrapnel and collapsing debris during the attacks.

As tensions ripple globally, world leaders urged calm and warned of the potential for wider conflict. Oil prices spiked on fears of instability, and the U.N. Security Council is preparing an emergency session. In Israel, authorities continue urging civilians to remain in secure shelters, warning that further missile waves could strike without notice.