Iran launches ballistic missile strikes on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on nuclear sites, escalating tensions. IDF intercepts most missiles, but civilian casualties reported. Global oil prices surge as UN calls for de-escalation. June 15, 2025. (134 characters)
Iran has launched a series of ballistic missile strikes targeting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem early Sunday morning, in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on June 13, 2025, that hit Iranian nuclear facilities and killed top military leaders, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami and Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) report eight fatalities, including four children, and over 200 injuries in Israel, with significant damage to residential areas in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv.
Iran’s state media, citing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), dubbed the operation “Severe Punishment,” claiming hundreds of missiles were fired to counter Israel’s “preemptive” Operation Rising Lion, which targeted Natanz and other nuclear sites. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed a “harsh punishment,” stating, “Israel will not escape this great crime.”
The IDF, supported by U.S. ground-based air defense systems, intercepted most missiles, though some struck civilian areas, causing widespread panic. Air raid sirens blared across Israel, and residents were urged to seek shelter. Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a state of emergency, warning of further Iranian drone and missile attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised address, reiterated that the strikes aim to “eliminate Iran’s nuclear threat” and urged Iranians to “rise up against their oppressive regime.” Israel continued airstrikes on Tehran, targeting military infrastructure and energy sites, including the Shahran oil depot. Iran reported 78 deaths from initial Israeli strikes, with civilian casualties rising.
The escalating conflict has disrupted U.S.-Iran nuclear talks scheduled for June 15 in Oman, with Iran withdrawing participation. President Donald Trump, denying U.S. military involvement, stated, “We can easily get a deal done,” while warning Iran against targeting U.S. bases.
Global oil prices surged 9% amid fears of regional escalation, though OPEC reported no immediate supply disruptions. Yemen’s Houthis, aligned with Iran, claimed missile attacks on Jaffa in coordination with Tehran. The UN Security Council is set to convene an emergency meeting as calls for de-escalation grow.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
