Israel Launches Missile Strikes on Iran; Tehran Vows “Crushing” Retaliation

Tehran / Jerusalem / Washington : Israel has launched a missile attack against Iran, according to Israeli officials, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. A US official told Al Jazeera that the United States participated in the strikes, describing them as joint operations aimed at dismantling Iran’s security apparatus.

Explosions Reported Across Iran

Multiple explosions were heard in the Iranian capital, Tehran, with additional blasts reported in Kermanshah, Lorestan, Tabriz, Isfahan and Karaj, according to local media. The reports could not be independently verified.

Cellphone communications have been disrupted in several parts of Tehran, with residents reporting that calls are currently not possible. There are also concerns that internet services may soon be affected.

Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization announced that the country’s airspace has been closed until further notice. In a related move, neighboring Iraq also shut its national airspace following the attacks, according to the Iraqi News Agency.

Iran Preparing Response

An Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran is preparing a retaliation that would be “crushing.” As of now, there has been no formal televised address or detailed official statement from senior Iranian leadership.

State of Emergency in Israel

The Israeli military has declared a state of emergency, urging citizens to remain close to shelters. Israeli authorities have previously stated that Iran poses a direct threat to the country’s security, framing the current operation as consistent with that policy position.

Regional Implications

The reported US involvement suggests the strikes were conducted with coordination at the highest levels. Analysts warn that direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran — particularly with US participation — risks triggering a broader regional conflict, potentially drawing in allied armed groups and neighboring states.

At present, details about the targets, casualties, and the full scope of the damage remain unclear. Independent verification of events inside Iran is limited due to communications disruptions.