A wave of Iranian missile strikes has hit Tel Aviv as the war enters its third week, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of Israel’s air defense systems and the risk of a broader regional escalation.
Israeli sources report that one of the missiles was equipped with cluster munitions, carrying 3 to 4 submunitions and around 100 kilograms of explosives. The strike in a central area of the city caused significant damage to buildings and vehicles, while missile debris was also found in the Rosh Ha’ayin area, east of Tel Aviv.
At least six people were injured. The Israeli military (IDF) responded immediately, targeting missile launchers and military infrastructure in western Iran, according to local media reports.
Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its operations into Lebanon. Seven airstrikes were reported overnight in the southern suburbs of Beirut, hitting residential areas and raising fears of the conflict spreading beyond its current boundaries.
On the diplomatic front, the White House said plans for talks with Iran remain “fluid,” warning against speculation. President Donald Trump said he had delayed strikes on Iranian energy facilities by five days following what he described as “productive” talks with Tehran, a claim rejected by Iran as “fake news.”
The escalation has also hit global markets. Brent crude has climbed back above $100 per barrel, reaching around $103.69 in Asian trading, while US Nymex crude also rose, reflecting fears of disruptions to global energy supply.