JERUSALEM, Israel — Tensions in the Middle East escalated Sunday after Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel, marking the first direct Iranian attack since a ceasefire between the two countries took effect in April.
According to the Israeli military, all incoming missiles were intercepted before reaching their targets. Air raid sirens sounded across multiple areas, and Israeli authorities closed schools nationwide as a precaution. No casualties or significant damage were reported.
The missile launch came days after an Israeli airstrike targeted Beirut’s Dahiyeh district, a Hezbollah stronghold in Lebanon. Lebanese health officials reported that the strike killed two people and injured 20 others. Iranian and Hezbollah officials condemned the operation, arguing it violated the ceasefire framework that has largely held since April.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Israel would face a “decisive and painful” response following the Beirut attack. Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces said it remains on high alert and prepared for additional threats.
The renewed exchange has raised concerns that the fragile ceasefire could unravel, potentially drawing additional regional actors into the conflict. Diplomatic efforts continued over the weekend, including a visit by Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to Tehran as regional governments sought to reduce tensions.
President Donald Trump also weighed in on the developments, urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to retaliate further. Trump stated that Iran had already launched its missiles and called on both sides to return to negotiations.
Sources:
• Associated Press – MBFC Rating
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