Iranian Missile Barrage Targets Central Israel

Iran launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel on June 13, 2025, in what it called "Operation True Promise 3," reportedly in retaliation for an Israeli surprise offensive against Iranian nuclear and military facilities. According to Israeli emergency services, at least 41 individuals were injured in central Israel, including two in critical condition.

The missile barrage targeted areas in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and surrounding districts. Israel's military stated that fewer than 100 missiles were launched by Iran, with the majority intercepted by Israeli and U.S.-assisted air defense systems. Despite the interceptions, damage and casualties were reported in several impact zones, particularly in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area.

Israeli Counterstrikes on Iranian Facilities

In response to the Iranian attack, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched retaliatory airstrikes on over 200 targets within Iran, including critical military and nuclear infrastructure. Key facilities in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow were struck. According to the IDF, the airbase in Tabriz was destroyed, and components of Iran’s air defense systems and ballistic missile launchers were targeted.

The IDF stated that the attacks included strikes on uranium enrichment infrastructure, drone facilities, and command centers. Satellite imagery confirmed damage to structures at the Natanz nuclear site. Reports also indicated that electricity was cut to underground centrifuge halls, possibly due to cyber elements accompanying the physical strikes.

Civilian Impact and Emergency Measures

Hospitals in Israel, including Beilinson and Sheba Medical Center, reported treating dozens of injured civilians. Fire and rescue teams responded to high-rise buildings damaged by missile impacts, with evacuations and rescue operations ongoing.

Israel’s Home Front Command advised the population to remain close to protected spaces amid warnings of potential follow-up salvos. Multiple alerts were activated across the country, including in Jerusalem and the northern regions.

International and Regional Reactions

A U.S. representative to the United Nations warned Iran against targeting American personnel or assets, emphasizing that the United States did not participate in the Israeli operation. U.S. officials confirmed providing assistance in missile interceptions and stated that additional military resources, including naval assets, had been deployed to the region.

In a Security Council meeting, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that one above-ground enrichment facility at Natanz was destroyed and mentioned chemical and radiological contamination, although he assessed it as manageable. Iran informed the IAEA of damage at other nuclear facilities in Fordow and Isfahan.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly offered to mediate between the parties, labeling the Israeli strikes as a breach of international law. Meanwhile, leaders in Jordan and France expressed concern over regional stability.

Military Developments and High-Level Deaths

The IDF confirmed the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian military officials, including the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) Aerospace Force, Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Iranian state media reported additional fatalities in Tabriz and Tehran, while local agencies documented airstrikes in multiple provinces.

According to Israeli sources, the attacks also targeted command infrastructure and drone-launching sites. The military announced reserve mobilizations across various combat sectors.

Continued Threats and Regional Escalation

Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, warned of ongoing retaliation, with state television reporting additional missile salvos toward Israel. Israeli officials signaled readiness for further escalation, indicating that more military targets had been identified.

Separately, a missile believed to be launched from Yemen impacted near Hebron without interception, injuring three children. Israel also reported intercepting drones in its airspace and near the Syrian border.

Civilian and Diplomatic Measures

Amid heightened alert, Israel closed Ben Gurion Airport for at least three days. Blood donation campaigns were launched, and hospitals entered emergency mode. International air carriers, including Delta Airlines, suspended flights to Israel.

The United Nations Security Council scheduled an emergency session at Iran’s request. Iran issued a diplomatic protest through Switzerland, which represents U.S. interests in Tehran.

Broader Implications

Public demonstrations against Israel were reported in Tehran and other Iranian cities. Iran also imposed temporary internet restrictions. France postponed an international conference on Palestinian statehood initially planned for June 17.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disclosed that the operation had been in planning since November 2024, originally scheduled for April 2025. The Israeli cabinet continues to assess military and diplomatic strategies amid forecasts of prolonged conflict.