Iran and Israel Exchange Missile Strikes Amid Rising Tensions
The ongoing air conflict between Iran and Israel entered its sixth day on Wednesday, as both countries launched fresh missile strikes against each other. This escalation follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for Iran’s unconditional surrender.
The Israeli military reported that two waves of Iranian missiles targeted Israel early Wednesday, with explosions heard over Tel Aviv. In response, Israel ordered residents in southwestern Tehran to evacuate ahead of planned airstrikes on Iranian military sites. Iranian media confirmed strikes on a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran, which was also hit by Israeli forces last October.
Khamenei Warns Against U.S. Military Action
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned any U.S. military intervention, stating that Iran “will stand firm against an imposed war” and “will never surrender.” He warned that any American attack would have “irreparable consequences,” emphasizing that Iran does not respond well to threats.
Iranian Forces Shoot Down Israeli Drone and Fighter Jet
Iranian state media reported that their forces shot down an Israeli Hermes surveillance drone over Isfahan and destroyed an Israeli F-35 fighter jet near Varamin city. Israel has yet to comment on these reports.
Israel Faces Shortage of Defensive Interceptors
Reports indicate Israel is running low on Arrow missile interceptors, potentially impacting its ability to defend against Iran’s long-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. has been reinforcing Israel’s defenses through additional systems on land, sea, and air.
Iran Launches Hypersonic Missiles and Drone Swarm
Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed to have launched hypersonic Fattah-1 missiles targeting Tel Aviv, describing the strikes as part of “Operation Honest Promise 3.” These missiles travel faster than five times the speed of sound and can maneuver mid-flight, making them difficult to intercept.
Additionally, Iran sent a swarm of drones toward Israel, with the Israeli army intercepting two near the Dead Sea.
Trump Comments on Iran’s Supreme Leader and Conflict
President Donald Trump stated that U.S. forces know the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, but have chosen not to target him “at least not for now.” Trump expressed frustration over missile attacks on civilians and U.S. troops, warning that American patience is wearing thin.
U.S. Creates Task Force to Support Americans in the Middle East
The U.S. State Department established a 24-hour Middle East Task Force to assist American citizens and diplomatic missions amid the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. Over 30 security alerts and travel advisories have been issued to keep citizens informed.
China Criticizes Trump for Escalating Tensions
China accused President Trump of “pouring oil” on the conflict, warning that threats and pressure will worsen the situation rather than promote peace. Chinese officials called for restraint amid rising hostilities.
Trump Urges Tehran Residents to Evacuate
As the conflict intensified, Trump urged Iranians to evacuate Tehran due to Iran’s refusal to agree to nuclear restrictions. He also left the G7 summit early to monitor the situation and convened the U.S. National Security Council.
Global Markets React to Israel-Iran Crisis
The escalating conflict caused oil prices to surge and stock markets to dip, reflecting investor fears of a broader Middle East war. Experts warn that tensions show no signs of easing, keeping markets on high alert.
