Iran launches missile barrage on Israel in retaliation for U.S. strikes on Nuclear Sites
Jun 22, 2025
Iran launched a massive wave of ballistic missiles at Israel early Sunday morning, striking multiple locations across central and northern Israel, including the cities of Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem. The attack comes in direct response to U.S. airstrikes on three of Iran’s major nuclear facilities just a day earlier.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), more than 30 missiles were launched from Iranian territory in two waves. The first barrage involved 22 missiles, followed by a second wave of five. Several missiles evaded air defense systems, hitting urban areas and causing significant damage.
Emergency service Magen David Adom (MDA) reported at least 16 injuries, including two children. Most of the wounded suffered from shrapnel injuries and blast trauma. Emergency teams are currently responding at more than 10 impact sites, treating casualties and assessing structural damage.
A missile that struck the northern port city of Haifa did so without triggering the city's air raid sirens, prompting concern over potential vulnerabilities in Israel’s missile warning system. In other regions, sirens functioned properly, allowing civilians to take shelter.
The missile strike follows U.S. military action on Saturday, when American forces bombed Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities using bunker-buster munitions and Tomahawk cruise missiles. Washington claimed the strikes were aimed at preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear weapons program.
While the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that no radiation leaks had been detected, Iranian officials warned of further retaliation if attacks on their infrastructure continue.
The Iranian counterattack has raised fears of a broader regional war. Israeli fighter jets reportedly launched retaliatory airstrikes on missile launch sites inside western Iran. Meanwhile, Jordan and other neighboring countries activated air defense protocols, and sirens were triggered in areas near the border due to missile proximity.
The United Nations and several global powers have called for immediate de-escalation. However, Iranian military leaders have vowed to continue their "crushing response" if provoked further.
With missiles hitting densely populated areas, civilian safety remains a pressing concern. Israeli authorities have kept bomb shelters open and are urging residents to remain alert. The Home Front Command continues to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates.