Missiles struck parts of Israel while powerful explosions were reported across Iran on Friday as the intensifying conflict in the Middle East moved into its third week, raising fears of a wider regional war.
Air raid sirens sounded in several Israeli cities as the country’s defence systems intercepted incoming projectiles believed to have been launched from Iran and allied forces. Witnesses reported seeing missiles streak across the night sky while loud blasts echoed in areas including Jerusalem and other parts of central Israel.
Israel’s military said it carried out a fresh wave of retaliatory strikes targeting Iranian military facilities and strategic infrastructure. Iranian state media and residents reported multiple explosions in and around the capital, Tehran, as well as in other cities, with fires and thick smoke visible from some targeted locations.
The latest exchange of missile and air strikes underscores the escalating confrontation between Israel and Iran, which has drawn in several regional actors and raised alarm among world leaders. Military analysts warn that the continued cycle of attacks could push the region closer to a broader conflict involving additional countries.
According to reports, Iranian forces have continued to launch missiles and drones toward Israeli targets in response to Israeli strikes on Iranian military and strategic facilities. Israeli defence systems, including air defence batteries, have intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, though some explosions were still heard across parts of the country.
The conflict has already caused significant casualties and widespread destruction. Iranian authorities have reported heavy losses following a series of strikes on military installations, government buildings and infrastructure. Hospitals and emergency facilities have also been damaged, putting additional strain on the country’s health system.
Meanwhile, the violence has begun to spill beyond the two countries. NATO air defences in Turkey intercepted a ballistic missile that entered Turkish airspace, prompting Ankara to demand clarification from Tehran while warning that it would take necessary measures to defend itself.
Diplomatic efforts to halt the fighting have so far made little progress. Several countries and international organisations have called for an immediate ceasefire and urged both sides to de-escalate tensions. However, both Israel and Iran have signalled their readiness to continue military operations.
Security experts warn that if the hostilities continue to intensify, the conflict could spread further across the Middle East, drawing in additional armed groups and neighbouring states.
As the war enters its third week, civilians across the region remain on edge, bracing for further missile strikes and air raids while the international community struggles to contain one of the most dangerous confrontations in the Middle East in recent years.
