A 60-year-old man was killed in central Israel following a wave of ballistic missile launches from Iran, as multiple impact sites were reported across the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, emergency services said. At least six impact sites were identified across the densely populated Gush Dan region, including Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, Givatayim and Petah Tikva, with several buildings sustaining direct damage.
Rescue teams were deployed to multiple scenes, with concerns that additional casualties may be trapped under debris, particularly in Tel Aviv. Authorities said the fatality was caused by a fall during the missile alert.
Air raid sirens sounded across central Israel as air defense systems intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, though several missiles or fragments struck urban areas.
Israel strikes Iranian heavy-water reactor
In response, Israel expanded its military operations, including a strike on an Iranian heavy-water reactor facility, in what officials described as an effort to degrade Tehran’s strategic infrastructure.
The Israel Defense Forces said the broader campaign is targeting missile launchers, storage facilities and critical components of Iran’s military capabilities.
Israeli defense assessments indicate that, despite sustained strikes, only about one-third of Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal has been destroyed so far, leaving significant residual capacity for continued attacks.
Hezbollah and Houthis add pressure
Alongside the confrontation with Iran, Hezbollah has continued rocket and anti-tank fire from southern Lebanon, maintaining steady pressure on Israel’s northern front.
Meanwhile, Iran-aligned Houthi forces in Yemen have signaled deeper involvement in the conflict, raising concerns about a further expansion of the confrontation across the region.
Diplomatic contacts continue
Diplomatic efforts remain ongoing, with reports of indirect contacts between the United States and Iran aimed at containing the escalation.
Officials cautioned, however, that significant gaps remain between the sides, particularly over Iran’s military activities and regional posture.
Risk of broader regional war grows
The combination of sustained Iranian missile fire, Hezbollah attacks and potential Houthis' involvement underscores the growing risk of a wider regional conflict.
Israeli officials say military operations will continue as long as attacks persist, while emergency services remain on high alert amid continued barrages and the threat of additional strikes on civilian areas.
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