By Muhammad Mamman
Residents across parts of Israel rushed to bomb shelters after missiles were reportedly launched from Iran, heightening fears of a wider regional confrontation and prompting air-raid sirens in several cities.
According to Israeli security officials, the missiles were detected by the country’s early warning systems late on Saturday, triggering sirens in major urban centres including Tel Aviv and nearby districts. Authorities immediately instructed civilians to move into protected shelters as the military activated its air defence systems.
Israel’s defence forces said several incoming projectiles were intercepted, while emergency services were placed on high alert across the country. Initial reports indicated no immediate confirmation of casualties, though officials warned residents to remain close to shelters as a precaution.
The Israeli government described the incident as a “serious escalation”, accusing Iran of direct aggression and vowing that the country would respond “at a time and manner of its choosing”. Military spokespersons added that defence systems were operating at full capacity to neutralise further threats.
Iran has not immediately issued an official statement detailing the attack, but tensions between the two longtime adversaries have sharply intensified in recent months amid ongoing regional hostilities and accusations of proxy warfare across the Middle East.
Analysts say any direct missile exchange between Israel and Iran could significantly raise the risk of a broader conflict involving regional allies and armed groups aligned with both sides.
Meanwhile, Israeli authorities urged residents to follow civil defence instructions and avoid unnecessary travel while security forces continue to assess the situation.
The developments come as international leaders call for restraint, warning that further escalation between the two powers could destabilise an already fragile region.
