On the night of June 13, 2025, Tel Aviv, Israel’s bustling commercial hub, was shaken by loud explosions and air raid sirens as Iran launched a massive missile attack. This was a direct response to Israel’s large-scale airstrikes on Iran earlier that day, marking a dangerous escalation in the long-standing conflict between the two nations
What Happened in Tel Aviv?
Late on Friday, June 13, 2025, Iran fired hundreds of ballistic missiles targeting Israel, with Tel Aviv and Jerusalem bearing the brunt of the attack. Videos and reports showed bright flashes lighting up the night sky, followed by loud booms as missiles struck or were intercepted. Buildings shook, and residents rushed to bomb shelters as air raid sirens blared across central Israel. The attack continued into the early hours of Saturday, June 14, with multiple waves of missiles hitting areas near Tel Aviv, including Rishon LeZion and Ramat Gan.
At least seven sites around Tel Aviv were hit, with some missiles penetrating Israel’s advanced air defense systems. One woman was killed, and dozens were injured, with hospitals like Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv treating shrapnel wounds and other injuries. Damaged buildings, burned-out cars, and collapsed structures were reported, with rescue teams searching through rubble for survivors. The Marganit Tower, near the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) headquarters in Tel Aviv’s Kirya area, was visible in videos showing a missile strike, highlighting the attack’s proximity to critical military sites.
Why Did Iran Attack Israel?
The missile barrage was Iran’s retaliation for Israel’s massive airstrikes on Friday morning, which targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, military bases, and key commanders. Named “Operation Rising Lion,” Israel’s attack was its largest ever against Iran, involving 200 fighter jets and pre-positioned explosive drones. The strikes hit nuclear sites like Natanz and Fordow, killed senior military figures like General Mohammad Bagheri and General Hossein Salami, and caused significant damage in Tehran, Iran’s capital. Iran reported 78 deaths, mostly civilians, and over 320 injuries, calling Israel’s actions “state terrorism.”
Israel justified its attack as a necessary step to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons, which it sees as a direct threat to its security. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the operation “just the beginning,” signaling more strikes could follow. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed a “crushing response,” leading to the missile attacks on Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities. This back-and-forth has raised fears of an all-out war in the Middle East, a region already tense due to ongoing conflicts involving Israel, Palestine, and groups like Hezbollah.
How Did Israel’s Defenses Respond?
Israel’s air defense systems, including the famous Iron Dome, were put to a severe test. The Iron Dome, along with other systems like David’s Sling and Arrow, is designed to intercept rockets and missiles before they hit their targets. On June 13, these systems worked overtime, with videos showing streaks of light as interceptors shot down incoming missiles. The IDF reported that most of Iran’s missiles were either intercepted or fell short, but some caused damage, indicating that Iran’s missiles breached defenses in certain cases.
The U.S. military also assisted Israel, using ground-based air defense systems to help shoot down Iranian missiles. Despite this, a few missiles hit residential areas and military sites, showing that Iran’s attack was more sophisticated than previous ones. A U.S. military analyst noted that while Iran used mainly ballistic missiles and possibly drones, the attack was “one-dimensional” and not overly complex, which helped Israel’s defenses respond effectively. Still, the scale of the attack—hundreds of missiles in multiple waves—was a significant challenge.
Impact on Tel Aviv’s Residents
For the people of Tel Aviv, the night was terrifying. As sirens wailed, families ran to bomb shelters, some carrying pets, as seen in images of residents fleeing damaged buildings. Supermarkets saw a rush for essentials like water and food as people prepared for further attacks. Social media videos captured the chaos, with plumes of smoke rising over the city and the sound of explosions echoing like thunder. In Ramat Gan, east of Tel Aviv, a house was nearly destroyed, and in Rishon LeZion, rescue teams worked to free people trapped in collapsed buildings.
The human toll, while limited compared to Iran’s losses, was significant. One death was confirmed, and at least 34 people were injured, with five reported in the Tel Aviv area alone. The psychological impact was immense, as residents faced the reality of a direct attack on their city, something rare despite Israel’s history of conflicts.
Why Does This Matter to India?
For Indian readers, this conflict may seem distant, but it has important implications. India has strong ties with both Israel and Iran. Israel is a key partner in defense, providing India with advanced technology like drones and missile systems, while Iran supplies oil and is a strategic partner in the region. Any escalation could disrupt oil prices, affecting India’s economy, as the Middle East supplies a large share of India’s energy needs. Indian workers in the Gulf region could also face risks if the conflict spreads.
Moreover, India’s government has called for peace and restraint, aligning with global leaders like the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief, who urged both nations to avoid targeting nuclear facilities. Such attacks could have catastrophic consequences, including environmental and humanitarian crises that could affect the entire region, including India’s interests.
What Happens Next?
The situation remains tense. Iran has promised more attacks, with a senior official warning that countries supporting Israel could face strikes on their regional bases. Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, said Iran would “pay a heavy price” for targeting civilians, and Netanyahu hinted at further military action. The IDF has instructed residents to stay near shelters, and air raid sirens continue to sound as of Saturday morning, June 14, 2025.
International efforts to calm the situation are underway. The U.S., while aiding Israel’s defense, has clarified it was not involved in the initial strikes on Iran. Countries like the UK and European nations have urged de-escalation, but the risk of a broader war looms large, especially with groups like Yemen’s Houthi militia, backed by Iran, joining the conflict by firing missiles at Israel.
Staying Safe and Informed
For those following this news from India, it’s important to rely on trusted sources like the BBC, Reuters, or Indian outlets like The Times of India for updates. Social media posts, while quick, can spread misinformation, as seen with an old video from October 2024 falsely shared as a recent attack on Tehran. Always cross-check information before sharing.
The events in Tel Aviv are a stark reminder of how quickly tensions can escalate in the Middle East. For now, the world watches anxiously as Israel and Iran exchange blows, hoping for a resolution that avoids further loss of life and destruction. Indian students, professionals, and families with ties to the region should stay updated and prepared for any impact on travel or trade.
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Last Updated on: Saturday, June 14, 2025 12:03 pm by Naga Surya Teja Ganpisetty | Published by: Naga Surya Teja Ganpisetty on Saturday, June 14, 2025 12:03 pm | News Categories: News
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