Jerusalem, Oct 02 (V7N) — Tensions between Israel and Iran have erupted into a new phase of conflict after Iran launched a massive missile attack on Israel on Tuesday evening, in response to the assassination of several key figures, including former Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

According to reports, over 180 missiles were fired from Iran, targeting strategic locations such as Nevatim Air Base and key areas in Tel Aviv. The attack set off air raid sirens across Israel, causing widespread panic as citizens rushed to find shelter. Missiles were also spotted flying over the Jordanian capital of Amman, with sirens blaring there as well.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded swiftly, issuing a stern warning to Iran, saying, "Iran has made a big mistake tonight... they will pay a high price." Netanyahu immediately called an emergency cabinet meeting and reaffirmed Israel’s policy of retaliation, stating, "Those who attack us, we will attack them."

While Israel has declared a state of emergency, reports indicate that a school in central Israel and a restaurant in Tel Aviv were destroyed, and a Palestinian civilian in the occupied West Bank was killed. However, Israel's security forces claim to have intercepted several of the missiles.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian defended the missile strikes, calling them a necessary response to Israeli aggression and declaring that the attack was only a glimpse of Iran’s military capabilities. "Tonight's attack is just a glimpse of Iran's capabilities," Pezeshkian said, adding that Iran would stand firmly against any threat.

The situation in the Middle East has become increasingly volatile over recent weeks, following Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah and subsequent attacks on Lebanon. Iran’s missile attack has further escalated the conflict, with fears of an all-out war between the two nations growing by the hour.

Both nations remain on high alert, with the international community watching closely as the threat of a wider regional conflict looms.

END/RH/AJ