In a powerful show of force, Iran launched a second wave of missile strikes on Israel Saturday, retaliating against Israel’s Operation Rising Lion—a military assault that reportedly killed at least 78 people and injured over 320, according to Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations.
Iran’s military released footage of the latest strikes accompanied by a chilling message: “When the last sword strikes, we’ll see who remains.” The attack marked a sharp escalation in hostilities and signaled Tehran’s resolve to respond decisively to what it considers a grave act of aggression.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the fresh missile launches, issuing immediate alerts across several regions. “Sirens have sounded in multiple areas following the detection of missile launches from Iran toward the State of Israel,” an IDF spokesperson stated. The military added that Israeli air defense systems were actively engaging the incoming threats and would “strike where necessary to eliminate them.”
Following a situational assessment, Israeli authorities later announced it was safe for residents to exit shelters, though they were advised to remain cautious and nearby.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, addressed the nation in a recorded message, reinforcing Iran’s intent to respond with full seriousness. “Do not think the attack is over,” he said. “They began this aggression, and they will not escape its consequences. We will not allow such a grave offense to go unanswered.”
Origins of the Conflict
The current flare-up stems from what Israeli officials have described as the most extensive military operation ever carried out against Iran. Late Thursday night, Israeli jets and drones—some allegedly deployed from within Iranian territory—launched a coordinated assault deep inside Iran.
The targets included key infrastructure: components of Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile production sites, and high-level military command posts. The strike reportedly killed several senior Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists, further inflaming tensions.
Iran responded Friday night by firing a wave of ballistic missiles at central Tel Aviv, marking the beginning of open retaliation.
Global Reactions
Reactions from world leaders were swift and divided.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, referencing past negotiations, tweeted: “Two months ago I gave Iran a 60-day ultimatum to ‘make a deal.’ They should have done it! Today is day 61. I told them what to do, but they just couldn’t get there. Now they have, perhaps, a second chance.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for peace in the region, stating, “Received a phone call from PM @netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasized the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also appealed for de-escalation: “The reports of these strikes are deeply concerning. Escalation helps no one. The priority must be stability in the Middle East. We are engaging with our partners to help reduce tensions. Now is the time for restraint and a return to diplomacy.”
Iran, however, dismissed calls for calm, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson stating, “If you stayed silent during two years of Palestinian massacres and last night’s attack on Iran, don’t ask for restraint now. Keep your silence.”
As the situation continues to evolve, fears grow of a broader regional conflict that could draw in multiple nations and destabilize an already fragile Middle East.
