The war between Israel and Iran has entered its fourth straight day with no signs of slowing down. Overnight, Iran launched another barrage of missiles and drones into central Israel, hitting major cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa. In response, Israel expanded its military operations deep into Iranian territory, targeting what it calls key intelligence and nuclear sites.
Iran’s Latest Strikes Hit Cities Hard
Early Monday morning, air raid sirens screamed across central Israel. Residents in Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva, and Haifa rushed to shelters as explosions lit up the sky. Iranian missiles struck residential areas, a school, and infrastructure sites—including a power plant near Haifa. Israeli officials confirmed at least five deaths and more than 100 people injured.
For many Israelis, the past few days have felt like a return to the darkest moments of past conflicts. “We were sleeping when the sirens started. Then the blast blew out our windows,” said one Tel Aviv resident. “My children are terrified.”
Israel Responds with Force
Israel didn’t wait long to answer back. Under the operation name “Rising Lion,” the Israeli military launched airstrikes across Iran, focusing on nuclear facilities and intelligence hubs in Tehran. Israeli warplanes targeted sites connected to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, and satellite images show significant damage to multiple locations.
Among the most high-profile targets were Brigadier General Mohammad Kazemi, head of IRGC intelligence, and his deputy—both reportedly killed in the strikes. Israel claims its goal is to cripple Iran’s ability to launch further attacks.
Civilian Casualties on Both Sides
The human toll is rising rapidly. Iran says at least 224 people have been killed, the vast majority of them civilians, and over 1,200 have been injured since the conflict began on Friday. Hospitals in Tehran are overwhelmed, and many residents are trying to flee the city out of fear that more strikes are coming.
In Israel, 18 people have died in the past four days, with hundreds more hurt. The country remains on high alert, with citizens told to stay near bomb shelters and avoid unnecessary travel.
Cities in Chaos, Families on the Run
The situation in Tehran is increasingly tense. Roads are packed with families trying to leave, and gas stations are overwhelmed with drivers hoping to fill up before things get worse. Iranian authorities have restricted internet access, and international airlines have started canceling flights in and out of the country.
In Israel, daily life has come to a standstill. Schools are closed, businesses are shuttered, and many residents are staying underground. “It’s like a nightmare on repeat,” said a father in Haifa. “All we can do is wait for the next siren.”
World Leaders Scramble for Solutions
Global leaders are watching with growing concern. At the G7 summit in Canada, the conflict has become a top priority. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called Iran a “key source of instability,” while other leaders urged both countries to pull back from the brink.
The United States has been involved behind the scenes, reportedly pushing Israel to avoid escalating the conflict further. One proposal to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader was rejected by President Trump, who warned it could trigger a full-scale regional war.
What’s Next?
There’s no clear path to peace right now. Iran has already promised more attacks and warned Israel of “devastating consequences.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the military campaign will continue until Iran is “deterred beyond doubt.”
Analysts warn that this isn’t just a fight between two countries—it’s a potential tipping point for the entire Middle East. With no ceasefire in sight and both sides digging in, the risk of a wider war is growing by the hour.
