Sirens blare in Israel as Iran retaliates to US-backed attack

The Israeli military said an “additional barrage of missiles” was launched toward Israel. Sirens sounded across multiple areas, including Tel Aviv, as the Israeli Air Force moved to intercept incoming threats.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its Aerial Defense Array was “identifying and intercepting threats.”

“In the last few minutes, sirens were sounded all throughout Israel, with an advance instruction alert directly to cellular devices to stay within proximity to protected spaces,” the IDF said, urging residents to remain near shelters.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the operation as aimed “to remove threats.”

Strikes Reported Near Tehran; Khamenei Not in Capital

According to Reuters, Israeli-US strikes took place near offices linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The 86-year-old leader was reportedly transferred to a secure location outside Tehran at the time.

Visuals circulating on social media showed thick smoke rising from parts of southern Tehran. A journalist speaking to NDTV reported at least three to four strikes in the Iranian capital. There was no immediate clarity on casualties.

US President Donald Trump confirmed “major combat operations” in Iran shortly after the strikes.

Calling Iran the world’s “number one state sponsor of terror,” Trump said the objective was to “defend the American people by removing imminent threats from Iran.”

“For 47 years, the Iranian regime has chanted, Death to America, and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed,” he said, referencing regional attacks and the October 7 assault by Hamas on Israel.

In a message directed at Iranians, Trump urged citizens to stay indoors, warning that “it’s very dangerous outside.”

Earlier, Trump had said he was “not happy” with the pace of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, reiterating that Tehran “cannot have nuclear weapons.”

Netanyahu: ‘Remove an Existential Threat’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the joint operation sought to “remove an existential threat posed” by Iran.

He added that the action could “create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands.”

Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace following the strikes. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 showed aircraft clearing from affected zones.

Air India and IndiGo flights were reportedly diverted after Israel shut its airspace.

Meanwhile, explosions were reported in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Qatar, according to AFP. Bahrain’s interior ministry said sirens were activated following a missile threat targeting the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet.

Internet Blackout in Iran

Monitoring group NetBlocks reported a near-total internet shutdown in Iran.

“Network data show Iran is now in the midst of a near-total internet blackout with national connectivity at 4% of ordinary levels,” NetBlocks said, adding the move resembled measures seen during last year’s conflict with Israel.

India Issues Advisory for Nationals

India’s embassy in Tel Aviv advised Indian nationals to strictly follow safety instructions issued by Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command.

Citizens were urged to avoid non-essential travel, remain near designated shelters and monitor local emergency alerts.

An emergency helpline was issued: +972-54-7520711, with email support via [email protected]

The strikes come amid renewed but fragile US-Iran negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. While Iran has signalled willingness to discuss curbs in exchange for sanctions relief, it has ruled out linking the issue to missile capabilities.

Israel has insisted that any agreement must dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and address ballistic missile concerns.

With hospitals in Israel activating emergency protocols and Tehran vowing to defend itself, the region faces one of its most volatile moments in recent years.