Tel Aviv, Mar 23 (V7N) – Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated as Iran continues missile strikes against Israel, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

According to reports by Al Jazeera, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched multiple missiles equipped with cluster warheads overnight on Sunday, targeting several locations in central Israel, including the capital, Tel Aviv.

Israeli air defense systems intercepted a number of incoming missiles. However, some projectiles reportedly struck their targets, causing damage in several areas. Authorities have not yet released full details on casualties or the extent of destruction.

In response to the ongoing attacks, Israeli authorities have ordered the closure of all educational institutions and imposed restrictions on public gatherings, banning assemblies of more than 50 people until Tuesday, March 24. Multiple emergency alerts have been issued across affected regions.

Earlier, a powerful explosion was reported in eastern Tehran. Al Jazeera correspondent Suhaib Al-Assa described the blast as unusually intense, noting that both its sound and impact were unprecedented in recent memory.

The conflict has also expanded beyond Israel. Iran reportedly carried out drone and missile strikes targeting regional countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Meanwhile, Iraqi armed groups have claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, in Erbil, Iraq.

In a related development, the headquarters of the pro-Iranian Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Baghdad came under attack. The group had earlier been accused of targeting US diplomats and a logistics facility at Baghdad’s main airport.

Simultaneously, joint operations by the United States and Israel continue across Iran. United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has released footage showing the destruction of multiple IRGC drones.

Reports indicate that at least 206 attacks have been carried out across 15 Iranian provinces within the past 24 hours, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing ռազմական escalation.

The rapidly evolving situation has heightened concerns of a wider regional conflict, with significant implications for security and stability across the Middle East.

END/SMA/AJ