Friday, July 4, 2025

Iran strikes back: Hundreds of ballistic missiles launched at Israel

Hundreds of ballistic missiles as part of “Operation True Promise 3” in retaliation to intensive missile strikes on Iranian targets, says Iranian state news agency IRNA. One of Iranian media outlet mentions that 100 missiles have been fired from Shiraz initially.

Iran carried out airstrikes in response to Israel’s attack on nuclear sites in Iran and killing military commanders.

Furthermore, IRNA claimed Iranian air defence system shot down two Israeli fighter jets and captured one pilot, mentioning that the aircraft were intercepted within Iranian airspace.

With limited data provided, the exchange represents a significant escalation in the already volatile relationship between the two nations.

Iran begin its missile strikes as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a national address. As he addresses, Khamenei outlined that Israel had triggered the conflict and emphasized that any future acts of aggression will result in decisive and serious retaliation, Indicating a significant shift in Iran’s strategic posture.

In response to Israel’s launch of approximately 100 drones, Iran vowed a forceful retaliation. According to Israeli military sources, most of the drones were intercepted by air defense systems before reaching Israeli territory.

Jordan also reported shooting down drones and missiles that violated its airspace. By 0800 GMT, Israeli authorities lifted the emergency alert, indicating that the immediate threat had been neutralized.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the Israeli strikes in a formal letter to the United Nations, calling them a “declaration of war” and urging the Security Council to intervene. Iran’s military further accused both Israel and the United States of being complicit in the attack.

However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any involvement, asserting that Israel acted independently in self-defence. He also warned Iran not to target American personnel or interests in the region.