The Israel-Iran crisis has escalated, with air defence systems activated in Tehran and six other provinces as new missile barrages target vital and civilian targets. As both countries exchange fire for the second day in a row, fears of a wider Middle East conflict grow.
Iran stated that various air defence systems were deployed overnight to intercept incoming missiles, some of which were allegedly launched by Israeli planes and drones. Residents in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Mashhad, Kermanshah, and Qom reported hearing loud explosions and seeing glowing trails across the night sky. Iranian authorities claim to have neutralized several threats, but infrastructure damage and casualties have been reported.
In retaliation, Iranian forces also launched precision strikes at military installations inside Israeli territory, warning that further attacks would be “met with greater force.” Meanwhile, Israeli defence officials stated that “the operation will not stop until Iranian aggression is fully neutralized.” Both sides have doubled down on their intent to continue offensive operations, raising concerns of regional spillover.
With diplomacy taking a backseat and airspace closures disrupting civilian travel and commerce, the situation remains highly volatile. Observers warn that any miscalculation could ignite a larger regional conflict, involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syrian proxies, and Gulf states. Global leaders continue to urge de-escalation — but so far, neither side is blinking.
