Key Points
- Iran launched missiles at Tel Aviv in response to the killing of its top security official, Ali Larijani.
- Israeli authorities report casualties and damage in Tel Aviv.
- Missile barrage follows an Israeli airstrike that killed Iran’s Supreme National Security Council chief.
- Middle East conflict has seen escalations involving Lebanon and Gulf states.
ISLAMABAD: Iran launched a series of ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv on Wednesday, including some armed with cluster warheads.
According to Iranian authorities, the latest strikes were in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council chief, Ali Larijani, and senior aides in a targeted Israeli strike during the night between Monday and Tuesday.
Iranian state media and military statements confirmed the operation, soon after the official confirmation of Larijani’s death in the early hours of Wednesday.
Casualties and urban impact
Israeli emergency services reported civilian casualties in Tel Aviv suburbs, along with structural damage in Ramat Gan and surrounding areas.
Air defence systems intercepted many incoming projectiles, but some caused damage to residential zones.
Local authorities are assessing the full extent of casualties and damage.
Background: security chief killing
The key Iranian official, Ali Larijani, was killed in an Israeli airstrike, alongside close aides. Larijani was a senior figure in Iran’s security apparatus.
Iranian military sources characterised the missile strikes as a retaliatory measure following the targeting of the official.
Iranian statements on retaliation
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement saying, “This operation is a direct response to the murder of our commander and his aides.
Those who commit aggression against Iran must be held accountable.”
Another official told state media, “We have sent a clear message that attacks on Iran’s leadership will not go unanswered, and our retaliation will be swift and decisive.”
Regional escalation
The Tel Aviv strike occurs amid broader regional hostilities.
Israeli air operations have targeted areas in Beirut, while Iran reportedly launched missiles and drones toward neighbouring Gulf states.
The conflict has expanded beyond immediate border regions, affecting civilian areas and strategic locations across multiple countries.
Conflict dynamics
The use of cluster munitions and missile barrages indicates an escalation in military tactics in the region.
Urban centres, previously less exposed, have come under threat, highlighting an expanded geographical scope.
Observers note that the coming days will be critical in determining the trajectory of the ongoing Iran war.
