Intensifying hostilities in Middle Eastern relations have escalated, with Israel launching strikes across Iranian territory while Iran retaliates with missile attacks. This back-and-forth exchange marks the fifth consecutive day of conflict.
On Tuesday, the violence escalated further following statements from President Donald Trump, warning of an urgent need for the evacuation of Tehran. Observers are increasingly concerned that the U.S. might trigger a broader regional conflict should it engage directly with Iran.
The Israeli Defense Forces announced early Tuesday that they conducted “multiple extensive strikes” targeting missile sites and various military installations primarily in western Iran, hitting dozens of facilities associated with missiles and drones.
Reports from Iranian media indicated that loud explosions were audible in Tabriz, a northwestern city housing a key air force base frequently targeted by Israel since the initiation of its surprise assault on Iranian military and nuclear sites last Friday.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media indicated that strikes in the central city of Kashan resulted in the deaths of three individuals and caused injuries to four others. Additionally, a residential building in Tehran was hit, leading to the rescue of three individuals from debris.
According to the Israeli military, Iran has also initiated missile launches, with Israeli forces actively working to intercept these projectiles. Explosions were reported over key areas including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Images captured showcased dark smoke clouds rising from Herzliya, prompting emergency services to respond.
Israel’s national emergency service reported that 10 individuals were injured while seeking safety during air raid sirens in Tel Aviv.
Israeli Forces Target Senior Iranian Official
In the midst of these attacks, the Israeli military claimed responsibility for the elimination of another prominent Iranian military figure. General Ali Shadmani was reportedly killed in a precision strike by the Israeli air force in central Tehran, described as Iran’s chief of staff during wartime and a close adviser to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This assassination follows the recent killing of Gholam Ali Rashid, the former commander of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.
Iran has yet to formally respond to these allegations, occurring just days after Israel targeted various high-ranking Iranian generals and nuclear scientists.
‘Immediate Evacuation of Tehran’ Urged
The escalating violence arrives amid international calls urging both nations to de-escalate tensions. However, President Trump, who abruptly left the G7 summit in Canada a day early due to the situation in the Middle East, appears to be increasingly supportive of Israel, delivering foreboding messages.
In a social media post overnight, he stated, “Everyone should evacuate Tehran immediately,” expressing concern over the “loss of human life” in the ongoing conflict and reiterating that Iran must not be permitted to develop nuclear capabilities.
He clarified that his departure from the G7 was not aimed at facilitating a ceasefire, refuting claims made by French President Emmanuel Macron suggesting otherwise.
In a pre-departure consensus among G7 leaders, Iran was labeled as “the primary source of regional instability and terror,” with the stance emphasized that Israel holds the right to defend itself. Israel argues that its military operations are crucial in thwarting Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weaponry, while Iran retaliates by launching a barrage of missiles and drones targeting Israeli territory.