Israel has launched an attack on Iran, escalating tensions in the region as Iranian state media reported the destruction of drones in retaliation. The attack comes days after Iran launched a drone strike on Israel, prompting fears of further conflict.
According to sources, the U.S. was not involved in the attack but was notified by Israel beforehand. Iranian state TV reported that three drones were destroyed in the sky over Isfahan, with no ground explosions occurring. The Israeli military has not commented on the reports.
The situation in Isfahan, where the attack took place, was described as normal following the incident. Iran’s air defense systems were activated, leading to the destruction of the drones.
The attack comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with analysts warning of the risks of the conflict spreading throughout the region. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi had previously warned of a “severe response” to any attack on Iranian territory.
Following the attack, Asian shares and bond yields sank while safe-haven currencies, gold, and crude oil prices rose. The closure of airports in Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan was reported, with flights being diverted or returning to their origin.
The Natanz nuclear site, a key facility for Iran’s uranium enrichment program, was unharmed in the attack. Iran has been conducting work at the site, which it claims is for peaceful purposes but the West believes is aimed at building a nuclear weapon.
The situation remains tense as Israel’s assault on Gaza continues, with over 33,000 Palestinians killed in the military offensive. Iran-backed groups have declared support for Palestinians, launching attacks from various countries in the region.