Israel and Iran continued striking each other early Saturday into a second day of intense confrontation, inflicting heavy losses and raising global alarm. According to Iranian state media, more than 70 people were killed in the strikes inside Iran, including prominent military and nuclear officials. Israeli authorities confirmed at least three civilian deaths and dozens of injuries after Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones.
A senior United Nations diplomat in Tehran said at least 78 people were killed and over 300 wounded in the exchange, though independent confirmation of the figures remains limited.
Deadly blows in Iran and Israel
Israel’s early Friday offensive targeted nuclear and military installations, including the Natanz nuclear site and air-defense systems near Tehran. Officials say at least four senior commanders, including General Hossein Salami and General Mohammad Bagheri, were killed. In response, Iran launched dozens of missiles and drones toward central Israel.
On Saturday, air-defense sirens blared as explosions rocked neighborhoods across the country. Medical workers and officials reported two additional civilian deaths and around 19 injuries in central Israel, including areas near Ramat Gan and Tel Aviv.
The strikes interrupted a pause in U.S.–Iran nuclear discussions intended to curb Iran’s uranium enrichment. Israel framed its assault as preventive, aimed at delaying Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed to “punish” Israel, declaring that the attack was justified retribution. Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, warned the operation would continue “as long as necessary.”
Civilian impact and psychological toll
Residents in both nations endured trauma during the overnight barrage. In Iran, explosions shattered sleep and filled skies with smoke. The disruption of everyday life—including major disturbances at Mehrabad International Airport near Tehran—was widely reported. In Israel, families took shelter in reinforced rooms and prayed for safety as interceptor missiles soared overhead and debris rained down.
Global worries of wider conflict
The conflict marks the most direct and confrontational exchange between the two nations in decades, drawing comparisons to the 1980s Iran–Iraq war. The involvement of multiple missile systems and drones—combined with reports that more than 200 Israeli military aircraft participated on the opening night—signals a shift toward full-scale military engagement.
Though Israel reportedly sought logistical support from the United States, senior American officials stated the U.S. is not directly involved. Still, Iranian officials have warned of possible retaliation against American allies and interests in the region—a threat that could implicate the U.S. in a rapidly spreading regional conflagration.
