Israel has launched a retaliatory strike on Tehran, less than 12 hours after Iran fired a wave of hypersonic missiles that struck Tel Aviv, killing civilians and severely damaging infrastructure.
Eyewitnesses in central Tel Aviv described terrifying scenes as the Iranian hypersonic warheads bypassed traditional missile defense systems and detonated near key urban centers. The death toll from the initial strike stands at at least 12, with over 385 injured, according to Israeli health authorities.
In response, Israeli F-35 jets and long-range missiles targeted strategic sites in Tehran, including what officials claim were command-and-control bunkers and missile factories tied to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Israel’s Response: Precision and Power
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the overnight air raid on Tehran was “surgical and proportionate,” aimed at crippling Iran’s offensive capabilities. Multiple explosions were reported across the Iranian capital, with videos surfacing online showing smoke rising from industrial districts and power grids.
Iranian state TV initially denied casualties but later admitted “material losses and several injured military personnel.”
Strategic Escalation: What Makes Hypersonic Missiles Different?
The hypersonic weapons used against Tel Aviv are believed to be Fattah-class rockets capable of flying at Mach 10+ and evading radar-based defense systems. This marks the first time hypersonic weapons have been used in a direct interstate conflict in the Middle East.
Experts warn this is a major escalation, as hypersonic arms tilt the balance of deterrence by reducing reaction time and increasing unpredictability in military responses.
Regional and Global Fallout
- U.S. President has convened an emergency meeting with NATO leaders.
- The UN Security Council has called for an emergency session to discuss ceasefire options.
- Civilians in both Iran and Israel are taking shelter, and airlines have suspended flights over the region.
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