Israel launched a preemptive missile strike on Iran on Saturday, triggering air raid sirens across the country and raising the threat of a broader regional conflict.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the attack and declared an immediate state of emergency nationwide, as authorities restricted all but essential public activities in anticipation of retaliation. The Israeli military said sirens were activated to prepare civilians for the possibility of incoming missiles.
Explosions were reported in central Tehran, with Iranian media saying multiple missiles struck areas in the capital, including the Republic district.
According to the Waal Street Journal, a U.S. official said the United States participated in the operation and was also carrying out strikes, marking a significant escalation and bringing war to Iran for the second time in eight months.
The attack follows weeks of rising tensions, including a monthlong U.S. military buildup and repeated warnings to Tehran over its nuclear program. U.S. Vice President JD Vance said earlier this month that Iran’s proposals in two rounds of negotiations failed to meet Washington’s demands.
Iranian officials had warned that any attack would prompt retaliation and could ignite a regionwide war. In preparation, Tehran mobilized forces, reinforced nuclear facilities, and tightened internal security measures.
Israel’s latest action comes after a 12-day conflict in June, during which Iran launched around 500 missiles at Israel, killing roughly three dozen people but causing limited disruption to Israeli military operations.
The unfolding conflict carries significant economic risks, as Iran borders the Strait of Hormuz — a critical passage for about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply — and lies near major Gulf energy infrastructure and commercial hubs.
