Tensions between Iran and Israel escalated further on Tuesday morning as Iran launched a volley of ballistic missiles targeting central Israel, triggering fires across multiple areas. While the strikes caused property damage and several fires, initial reports indicate few injuries and no major casualties.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that Iranian forces fired multiple medium- and long-range ballistic missiles into Israeli territory, with several projectiles striking open areas and some hitting civilian infrastructure. Emergency services responded to incidents in Tel Aviv, Herzliya, and Netanya, where blazes were reported following direct hits.
Authorities said that Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling air defense systems intercepted a number of missiles, but some managed to breach defenses, leading to localized damage. Videos circulating on social media showed fireballs rising from struck sites and firefighters battling blazes in residential zones.
This latest wave of attacks comes after Iran appeared to scale back its assault overnight, leading many to believe that a pause or possible diplomatic channel was being explored. However, Tuesday morning’s barrage has raised concerns that a full-scale regional confrontation is still underway.
In response, Israel has intensified air operations across Iran, with the IDF claiming to have eliminated Ali Shadmani, Iran’s newly appointed wartime chief of staff, in a precision strike in Tehran. Shadmani had only recently succeeded Lt. Gen. Gholam Ali Rashid, who was reportedly killed in earlier Israeli strikes.
Israeli military spokespersons stated that Shadmani played a key role in operational planning against Israel and was a central figure in Iran’s military escalation.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump denied reports that he left the G7 summit in Italy early to mediate a ceasefire deal with Iranian officials. “The reports are false. I’m in full coordination with U.S. allies, and we seek peace, but I didn’t leave the summit for Iran,” Trump told reporters in a brief statement.
As the conflict enters its second week, global powers continue to call for restraint. The United Nations has warned that further escalation may have dire consequences not only for the Middle East but for international stability.
