In one of the deadliest escalations in recent months, Iran launched two massive missile barrages on Israel early Sunday morning, killing at least eight people and injuring more than 140 others. Among the dead are two women, a 10-year-old boy, and an 8-year-old girl, according to Magen David Adom (MDA).
Dozens of residential areas were hit across central Israel, prompting a mass casualty declaration and widespread emergency response, reports agencies.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the attack involved coordinated missile and drone strikes carried out by both Iran and Yemen. Loud explosions were heard throughout the Dan, Central, and Jerusalem districts as ballistic missiles tore through the early morning sky, causing panic, destruction, and fires. Search-and-rescue operations are underway, with the Home Front Command reporting at least 35 people still missing as emergency teams comb through damaged areas. MDA said it received numerous emergency calls about suspected rocket impacts across central Israel.
Several hospitals reported an influx of wounded civilians, ranging from mild to critical conditions. Kaplan Hospital admitted 17 victims, including one in serious condition. Edith Wolfson Medical Center received 32 wounded, with three reported in serious condition. Tel Aviv Ichilov Medical Center reported 25 casualties, including an infant.
“With the assistance of additional medical teams, we have so far provided treatment to over 20 victims,” said a United Hatzalah medic on the scene. “One is in serious condition and three are in moderate condition. The rest are in mild condition. Some are children and elderly. These are extensive areas of destruction.”
Shrapnel and debris from intercepted or fallen missiles were reported in various districts, causing significant damage to streets, vehicles, homes, and public infrastructure. Fires broke out in open areas due to rocket impacts, further complicating the rescue operations, according to Israel’s Fire and Rescue Authority. Social media was flooded with footage of the aftermath, showing charred buildings, shattered windows, and emergency personnel responding under the blare of sirens.
The Israeli government has convened an emergency security meeting, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to address the nation later in the day. Military officials are also assessing the possibility of further attacks and the scope of Israel’s response. This latest barrage underscores growing regional tensions and raises concerns about a broader escalation in the Middle East. For now, central Israel remains on high alert, and security forces are urging residents to remain near bomb shelters and follow official updates.