Iran launches massive missile strike on israel
by Mathipa Phishego
24 Killed, Dozens Injured as Tel Aviv, Beersheba, and Haifa Rocked by Explosions In a sudden and devastating escalation, Iran launched a barrage of more than 400 ballistic missiles and drones at Israel early Friday morning, targeting urban centers and critical infrastructure. At least 24 people have been killed, with hundreds more injured in one of the most direct attacks on Israeli soil in decades.
There were reports of massive explosions in Bat Yam, Beersheba, Haifa, Ramat Gan, and Tel Aviv, overpowering air defence systems and sending millions of people running for cover.
Major cities were devastated by the strike. In Bat Yam, a missile struck a residential apartment block, killing nine individuals, including five Ukrainian refugees. Direct impact caused significant damage to Beersheba’s Soroka Medical Centre, necessitating staff and patient evacuations.
In Tel Aviv, several buildings were heavily damaged, including a high-rise near the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange in Ramat Gan. Fires broke out across Haifa’s port district after secondary explosions damaged nearby fuel depots and industrial zones. “Entire streets have been reduced to rubble, it looks like a war zone,” said a Tel Aviv emergency responder to Global Times.
Iran Firing missiles to Israel escalating the Israel-Iran war
image: Daily Iran Military
Within hours of the attack, Israeli forces responded with targeted airstrikes on Iranian military assets. Among the sites hit was the Arak heavy-water nuclear reactor, which Iranian officials claim was already evacuated, with no risk of radiation. Israel Defence Force (IDF) sources confirmed continued operations against missile launch sites, radar systems, and military command centers inside Iran.
Ben Gurion Airport has suspended all flights, and Israel’s Ministry of Defense has instructed civilians in central and southern regions to remain in shelters until further notice. Emergency sirens continued throughout the morning. The Israeli Education Ministry has closed all schools nationwide, while utility crews rush to restore power and water to affected zones.
With both nations sustaining damage and casualties, fears are mounting that a full-scale war may be on the horizon. Analysts say Iran’s strike, aimed at deterring future Israeli actions against its regional interests, has instead deepened hostilities and strengthened international support for Israel. “This is no longer a proxy conflict, this is Tehran and Tel Aviv trading direct blows,” said defense analyst Gil Harari talking to Global Times.