The conflict between Israel and Iran escalated sharply on Saturday morning, after Israel confirmed it had carried out a pre-emptive strike on Iran, just hours after launching air raids in Iqlim al-Tuffah region of southern Lebanon.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the strike on Iran was launched to counter what he described as an immediate security threat. Following the announcement, air-raid sirens sounded across Israel, including in Tel Aviv and other major cities. Authorities declared a special nationwide emergency and instructed residents to remain close to shelters and follow guidance from the Home Front Command.
Earlier in the day, the Israel Defense Forces carried out strikes in southern Lebanon targeting positions linked to Hezbollah. Israel said those strikes were aimed at preventing attacks along the northern border and accused Hezbollah of violating a ceasefire agreed in late 2024. Lebanese officials condemned the raids, warning that repeated strikes risk undermining the fragile truce.
In Tehran, witnesses reported hearing explosions and seeing smoke rise in parts of the capital. Iranian authorities have not yet released detailed information on the cause or extent of the damage. There were no immediate confirmed reports of casualties.
The back-to-back developments have intensified fears of a wider confrontation between Israel and Iran, whose tensions have been rising over regional influence, missile capabilities and nuclear concerns. Security analysts say that a direct strike acknowledged by Israel marks a significant shift from previous shadow conflict tactics.
Governments in the region and beyond are closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint as diplomatic efforts seek to prevent further escalation.
People living near the Lebanon–Israel border are on alert, with many rushing to shelters as officials issue safety advice.
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