Iran Launches Retaliatory Missile Strikes Across Middle East
At least one person has been confirmed dead following a series of bombings targeting airports in the Middle East, while massive explosions rocked the Israeli city of Tel Aviv. These attacks represent Iran's direct retaliation against recent US-Israeli military operations, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Tel Aviv Under Fire as Iron Dome Fails to Intercept Missile
In a dramatic escalation, one missile was captured on video by 7NEWS slamming into a building in Tel Aviv around 11pm local time (8am AEDT). As sirens blared across the city, warning residents to seek shelter in bomb shelters, the missile managed to penetrate Israel's renowned air-defence system, the Iron Dome. The impact caused a fireball that soared as high as nearby skyscrapers, highlighting the severity of the assault.
This retaliation from Iran introduces a technological leap in the ongoing conflict, utilising missiles capable of travelling at speeds up to five times faster than sound. Historical data underscores the challenge: during a 12-day war last year, the Iron Dome intercepted only 15 per cent of 500 Iranian missiles, resulting in 30 fatalities.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports Struck, Causing Injuries and Chaos
Further footage circulating on social media depicts extensive destruction at Dubai International Airport, reportedly struck by an Iranian missile. Dubai Airport officials confirmed that four staff members were injured in the attack and are currently receiving medical attention. The incident has plunged global travel into chaos, with all flights in and out of the airport suspended indefinitely.
Passengers have been advised not to travel to the airport and to contact their airlines directly for updates. In a statement, Dubai Airport said, "We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as soon as available." Additionally, the Fairmont Hotel was pictured ablaze after a drone believed to be from Iran exploded into the building.
In Abu Dhabi, UAE officials reported one fatality from falling missile debris at Zayed International Airport, with seven others injured. These attacks have forced evacuations in both cities, as residents seek safety in bomb shelters amid fears of an all-out war in the Middle East.
Political Fallout and Conflicting Reports on Leadership
The conflict erupted after Iran was bombarded by attacks from US and Israeli forces under Operation Epic Fury. In the aftermath, Israeli officials and US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed during the initial volley of attacks. Trump described Khamenei as "one of the most evil people in history."
However, sources close to Khamenei's office have refuted these claims, telling state media with confidence that "the leader of the revolution is steadfast and firm in commanding the field." As the confirmed death toll in Iran continues to rise, the country's ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, informed a Security Council meeting that more than 100 children were killed in a strike on a school, underscoring the humanitarian toll of the escalating violence.
