Iran Strikes Back: Missile & Drone Barrage Shakes Israel

 

June 15, 2025 — Iran launched a large-scale retaliatory operation—dubbed Operation True Promise III—in response to recent Israeli airstrikes targeting its nuclear and military infrastructure. The nocturnal assault, comprising over 150 ballistic missiles and 100+ drones, marked the first daytime missile attack from Iran, striking major urban centers including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Scope & Impact

At least 10 people were killed, and 200+ injured in Israel, with residential buildings damaged and fires reported . Iran’s barrage included the new Haj Qassem guided ballistic missile, reportedly designed to bypass Iron Dome and US THAAD systems.

22 missiles penetrated Israel’s defence, causing significant destruction in areas like Bat Yam, while many others were intercepted. Iran pledged to strike U.S. bases in the region next if the conflict continues.

Israel’s Counterstrikes

Israel responded with airstrikes on Tehran, targeting nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure, including an oil depot. Retaliatory strikes reportedly killed 60 people in Tehran, with fire breaking out at a fuel facility linked to South Fars gas fields.

Over 20 senior Iranian commanders were eliminated during Israeli raids. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed continued operations until Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities are dismantled.

Regional & Global Consequences

• Oil prices rose about 9%, driven by fears of broader conflict and supply disruptions.
• US-Iran nuclear talks have been suspended, halting any diplomatic progress.
• With tensions escalating, fears of the conflict spreading to Gulf states and threatening global energy security persist.

Voices from the Ground

• Israel’s rescue teams in Bat Yam reported “dozens” of casualties amid debris and sirens.
• Citizens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem expressed shock and distress—some described the sudden explosions as life-changing events.
• Iranian officials warned the conflict would further escalate and vowed the confrontation wouldn’t end quickly.

What Lies Ahead

• Iran has pledged continued strikes, expanding targets to U.S. bases if pressure persists.
• Israel has stated its campaign may last “as many days as necessary” to achieve its objectives.
• Diplomatic observers caution that regional escalation may draw in the U.S., Gulf states, and reshape Middle East geopolitics.

For the first time in daylight, Iran unleashed a bold missile-drones offensive on Israeli territory, marking a significant escalation. Israel responded in kind, striking deep into Iranian heartlands. As casualties mount on both sides and world markets react, the fragile thread of diplomacy is fraying, raising fears of a broader Middle Eastern conflict.