Israeli air forces have launched strikes against military targets across central and western Iran in retaliation for recent missile fire, defying calls for restraint from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Retaliation Strikes Against Iran
The Israeli military confirmed on X that its air forces targeted military facilities within the Iranian regime in central and western Iran. This operation followed an earlier Iranian missile barrage directed at Israel.
Confirmation of Attacks and Infrastructure Damage
The Iranian news agency IRNA confirmed the use of air-to-surface ballistic missiles during the strikes, which reportedly caused explosions in cities including Isfahan, Tabriz, and Tehran. Military reports indicate strikes on a petrochemical complex in the Mahshahr region, with Iran International noting damage to the Karoun petrochemical plants in Khuzestan province.
Regional Volatility and Houthi Involvement
As the conflict widens, Yemen’s Houthi rebels have entered the fray, issuing warnings that they will target vessels linked to Israel in the Red Sea, according to the Associated Press.
Diplomatic Tensions and Strategic Coordination
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Jechiel Leiter stated that Israel targeted surface-to-surface missile launchers and non-energy infrastructure. Leiter defended the action despite President Trump’s calls for restraint, citing the threat posed by the eleven ballistic missiles Iran launched at Israel today.
Hezbollah Warning and U.S. Cooperation
Ambassador Leiter warned that Israel will strike Hezbollah command centers in southern Beirut if the group begins shelling Israel. Meanwhile, an Israeli official told the newspaper Maariv that the strikes were conducted in coordination with the United States and the Trump administration.
