Tensions in the Middle East persisted into the fourth day as Iran launched another wave of ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel early Monday morning, killing at least eight people and injuring dozens more.
The Iranian assault targeted key cities including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Petah Tikva. According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Iran fired over 100 missiles along with dozens of drones. While most projectiles were intercepted, several managed to hit their targets, resulting in casualties and property damage.
Iran claimed it employed new tactics to bypass Israel’s defense systems, allowing multiple missiles to successfully reach their targets.
In retaliation, the Israeli Air Force launched airstrikes on Tehran and surrounding areas, targeting key military installations, command centers, missile launchers, and facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Quds Force. Israeli officials reported the death of several high-ranking Iranian officers, including intelligence chief Mohammad Kazemi, and the destruction of several missile bases.
Israel also claimed it has gained “air superiority” over Iranian airspace and disabled one-third of Iran’s missile launchers.
Iranian sources reported that Israeli strikes have so far killed 224 civilians and injured over 1,200. The reported Israeli death toll ranges between 8 and 14, though some unconfirmed reports suggest up to 24 fatalities.
Global powers, including the U.S. President and the European Union, have called for an immediate ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. The G7, Russia, Turkey, and the United Nations have also urged international intervention to de-escalate the situation.
The rising conflict has created volatility in global markets, with a significant spike in oil prices already being observed.
