Israelis Reel After Iranian Missile Barrage on Central Cities

Early Saturday as Iran launched a massive missile assault in retaliation for Israeli strikes on its nuclear and military leadership. The attacks killed three people, injured over 80, and caused widespread destruction in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Rishon Lezion.

Warning sirens blared across the country as families raced to safe rooms. While Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, several heavy warheads penetrated defenses and struck residential buildings, igniting fires and collapsing structures.

In Tel Aviv, a high-rise apartment was hit directly. Tali Horesh, a resident, described the moment of impact: “We shut the door to the safe room, then heard a boom so loud the whole building swayed. Smoke filled the apartment, but we stayed locked in for nearly two hours until rescue teams arrived.”

Emergency crews, including IDF Home Front Command soldiers, firefighters, and medics, worked tirelessly to search the rubble for survivors. “We’re trained for this,” said Col. (res.) Michael David. “But this level of destruction is something we’ve never experienced before.”

In Rishon Lezion, a missile struck a residential street, killing 73-year-old Yisrael Aloni and a woman whose name has not yet been released. At least 20 others were injured. One of the most harrowing moments came when rescuers pulled a three-month-old baby from the ruins of a collapsed home. “I handed her to the first police officer I saw,” said Captain Idan Chen, who led the rescue. “Then we went back in to get the rest of the family.”

Neighbors described the confusion and terror. “The kids and I ran to the safe room. Then we heard the boom,” said Avi Gatenio, who lives near the Rishon Lezion blast. “Afterwards, I saw the destruction, helped an elderly couple out from the rubble, and rushed back to my children. Thank Hashem we weren’t hurt.”

Iran’s barrage followed Israeli airstrikes the previous day that targeted Iranian nuclear enrichment sites, missile factories, and military officials. The strikes killed dozens and wounded hundreds, according to Iranian sources.

While Iran claims its nuclear program is peaceful, it continues to enrich uranium at 60%—a step away from weapons-grade. Israeli officials have made clear they will not allow Tehran to acquire a nuclear bomb.

As Israel assesses the damage and mourns the victims, the IDF remains on high alert for additional threats. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed a strong and sustained response, stating, “We will defend our citizens and ensure that those who seek our destruction face the full force of our resolve.”

Meanwhile, emergency teams are still combing through debris, and families are left to reckon with shattered homes and shaken lives.