Israel launched missile attacks on Iran’s Isfahan in the early hours of Friday morning, less than a week after Tehran’s rocket and drone barrage, as reported by US officials. ABC and CBS News were the first to report the strikes, quoting US officials. The White House and Pentagon have not yet issued any statements regarding the attacks.
Iran, on the other hand, claimed to have shot down several drones and denied any missile attack on the country after explosions were heard near the central city of Isfahan. The BBC reported that the explosions occurred in Isfahan, which is home to a major military air base and several Iranian nuclear sites, including the city of Natanz, a key location for Iran’s uranium enrichment program.
Tensions have been escalating since the recent assault on Israel by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, followed by Israel’s strikes targeting Iran in Syria. Flights were suspended in Isfahan, Tehran, and Shiraz, along with airports near the country’s western borders. Iranian air defense batteries were activated, and there were reports of drones being shot down.
The situation remains tense as both countries are on high alert. Iran’s foreign minister warned of immediate and maximum-level retaliation to any further attacks by Israel. The conflict has also impacted global markets, with oil prices surging and gold prices reaching new highs. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as the possibility of further escalation looms.