08 June,2026 01:39 PM IST | | Agencies
Missile debris found near Jericho as Israel-Iran tensions escalate again. (Pic/ AFP)
West Asia witnessed a sharp escalation in hostilities on Monday after Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles towards northern Israel, effectively ending a fragile ceasefire that had held for several weeks and raising fears of a wider regional conflict.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the missile barrage targeted Israel's Ramat David Airbase, which Tehran claims was used by Israeli fighter jets involved in airstrikes on Beirut's Dahieh district on Sunday. Lebanese health authorities said the Israeli strikes killed two people and injured at least 11 others.
Israel confirmed the missile attack and said its air defence systems were activated to intercept incoming projectiles.
In retaliation, the Israeli military said its Air Force carried out strikes on military targets in western and central Iran. In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) described the sites as belonging to what it called the "Iranian terror regime." However, the military did not immediately provide details regarding the locations targeted or the extent of damage caused.
The latest exchange has led to significant disruptions across regional aviation networks. Iraq has closed its airspace for 72 hours, while Syria has suspended operations at Damascus International Airport and shut parts of its southern air corridors. Iran has also closed sections of its western airspace until further notice.
Adding to the diplomatic pressure, the United States has circulated a draft resolution ahead of the June 8 meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors. The proposal calls on Iran to disclose the status of its damaged nuclear facilities and provide information on the location of its enriched uranium stockpiles.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that US military installations and Israeli assets across the region could be considered "legitimate targets" if hostilities continue. He accused Washington of backing Israeli military operations in Lebanon, further intensifying tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States.
Tehran described the missile operation as a measured act of deterrence rather than an attempt to widen the conflict. Iranian military leaders said any strike on Beirut would cross a "red line," prompting a response. By targeting a military installation rather than civilian areas, Iranian officials suggested they were seeking to impose costs on Israel while keeping diplomatic channels open.
US President Donald Trump called for restraint from both sides, urging Iran to return to negotiations and cautioning Israel against a large-scale military response that could derail ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The renewed tensions have already impacted global markets, with oil prices rising sharply amid concerns over the security of energy transit routes in the Gulf region. US crude gained around three per cent, while global benchmarks also moved higher.
Amid the deteriorating security situation, the Indian Embassy in Iran has advised Indian nationals to avoid travel to the country. In a social media advisory, the embassy also urged Indian citizens currently in Iran to leave using available transport options and closely monitor official updates.
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