Iran has targeted the Israeli defense headquarters in Tel Aviv, marking a significant failure of the Iron Dome air defense system that has been shielding Israel from a wave of missiles amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
This retaliation from Iran came after two separate waves of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian positions within a span of 24 hours.
A video that has been verified by The Times and circulated on social media shows a strike impacting a central area of Tel Aviv, where numerous military installations are situated, including the headquarters of the Israeli Defense Forces.
Israel Strikes Iran, Iran Strikes Israel Headquarters, Iran Retaliation
In a 19-second video segment, the Iron Dome is observed attempting to intercept an incoming missile from Iran. Nevertheless, the missile successfully penetrates the defense system and strikes the Defense headquarters.
The footage opens with the sound of outgoing projectiles followed by a bright flash and a fireball that strikes the building, resulting in a loud explosion.
The Marganit Tower, a notable landmark in the Kirya district of Tel Aviv, is visible in the background, located near the IDF headquarters.
On Friday morning, Israel executed “preemptive” airstrikes against Iran, focusing on nuclear facilities and military installations. Israel announced a state of emergency, with Defense Minister Israel Katz indicating that retaliatory measures from Tehran were likely following the operation.
Later that day, Israel conducted a second offensive against Iran, targeting over 200 sites. In retaliation, Iran responded, and explosions were reported over Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with sirens sounding throughout Israel on Friday night.
“All of Israel is under fire as Iran launches projectiles,” the Israel Defense Force reported on Friday night.
“Israelis are currently seeking shelter in northern Israel as sirens wail due to yet another missile launch from Iran,” the Israel Defence Force reported on Saturday morning.
IDF International Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani has attributed the ongoing tensions in the Middle East to Iran. In a message posted on X, he stated, “Let’s be clear—Iran and only Iran is accountable for the current tensions in the Middle East. Their ambition to acquire nuclear weapons and eliminate Israel from existence is what has led us to this point.”
Mr. Shoshani asserted that Israel executed “targeted strikes on terrorist sites,” while operating a thousand miles away. However, he accused Iran of launching missiles “indiscriminately at the civilian population.”
On Saturday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that Iran’s military forces are prepared to confront Israel. “The Zionist regime has made a significant mistake, a serious error, and has engaged in a reckless act. By God’s grace, the repercussions of this will lead to the downfall of that regime. The Iranian nation will not allow the blood of its esteemed martyrs to go unavenged, nor will it overlook the infringement of its airspace.”
“Our Armed Forces are prepared, and the officials of the country along with all the people stand united behind the Armed Forces,” he added.
