Iran launches counter attack to 'take revenge', explosions heard in northern Israel

Iran’s state news agency IRNA said President Masoud Pezeshkian was “alive” and in “good health,” amid the escalating tensions

Iran launched a retaliatory strike after Israel and the United States carried out what they described as a pre-emptive attack, with explosions reported in northern Israel and sirens sounding across the country, including in Tel Aviv.

According to Al Jazeera, blasts were heard as Israel activated its air defence systems to intercept incoming Iranian missiles following the coordinated nationwide assault on Iran. The explosions came shortly after the Israeli military announced it was deploying its interception systems to counter the barrage. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties as the situation continued to unfold.

Iran’s state news agency IRNA said President Masoud Pezeshkian was “alive” and in “good health,” amid the escalating tensions. Reports also indicated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been moved to a secure location. Iranian state television said the country was preparing to “take revenge” on Israel and deliver a “strong response.”

The Israeli military confirmed it had identified missiles heading toward its territory and urged citizens to follow instructions issued by the Home Front Command. “At this time, the Israeli Air Force is operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary to remove the threat,” it said.

The army cautioned that Israel’s air defences were “not hermetic,” stressing the need for the public to strictly adhere to safety guidelines. It later added that an additional barrage of missiles had been launched toward Israel.