Tehran/Tel Aviv (TheCOWNews Digital) In a major escalation of hostilities, Iran has launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Israel under what it calls “Operation True Promise III.” This marks the 11th such strike by Iran on Israeli territory, but it is the first to feature the powerful and high-altitude “Sejjil” missiles—a new generation of Iranian weaponry boasting precision and speed.
According to Iranian state media, the missiles were launched towards key Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa. Tehran claims that several of the dozen missiles fired successfully hit their designated targets. Video footage broadcasted by Iranian outlets appeared to show a missile streaking across the sky above Tel Aviv.
Israel’s air defense systems were immediately activated as sirens blared across major urban centers. However, reports suggest that Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems struggled to intercept the advanced Sejjil missiles and accompanying drones. Iranian sources also alleged that their attacks disrupted Israel’s control over its airspace and even downed an F-35 fighter jet—though this has not been independently verified.
In response, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they carried out retaliatory airstrikes on Iranian military facilities, including centrifuge sites believed to be linked with missile storage. The IDF claimed the strikes took place in three phases and targeted “strategic threats” within Iranian territory.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement asserting full control over “occupied airspace,” signaling a major strategic message to Tel Aviv. IRGC officials claimed that their Fateh missiles pierced through Israel’s defense shield and accurately hit military installations.
Simultaneously, Iran experienced a nationwide internet and mobile shutdown, citing Israeli cyberattacks as the cause. The Ministry of Information said the blackout was a precautionary step to protect citizens and national defense.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared the beginning of a full-scale war against Israel, saying, “The time for mercy is over. A harsh response is inevitable.” He also posted symbolic imagery referencing historic Islamic victories, adding a religious tone to the escalating rhetoric.
The situation continues to evolve rapidly as fears of a broader regional conflict mount.
