Israel and Iran exchanged retaliatory strikes early Monday, sharply escalating regional tensions and threatening a return to full-scale war. The attacks marked the most serious crossfire since the April 8 ceasefire between the two rivals. The renewed violence affects civilians, regional security, global energy markets, and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Israel launched strikes on central and western Iran after Tehran fired missiles toward Israeli territory. In response, Iran carried out fresh attacks targeting what it described as military sites in Israel. Explosions were reported in central Israel as air defense systems intercepted incoming missiles. Meanwhile, missile sirens also sounded in neighboring Jordan, highlighting the broader regional impact.
Read more: Israel strikes Iran despite Trump’s push for restraint
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it targeted two Israeli military bases under Operation Nasr, meaning “Victory.” The group claimed the attacks responded to Israeli strikes on radar facilities in three Iranian regions. Furthermore, Tehran had warned of retaliation after Israel struck Beirut’s southern suburbs days earlier. The exchange occurred on the 100th day of a conflict that began on February 28.
Meanwhile, regional diplomats intensified efforts to preserve the fragile ceasefire. Officials from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan, and Qatar urged restraint from both sides. Mediators reportedly pressed Washington to discourage further Israeli military action. At the same time, US President Donald Trump said he wanted missile attacks to stop and negotiations to resume, while insisting he remained in control of strategic decisions.
Read more: Israel and Iran exchange military strikes despite Trump ceasefire push
Separately, Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed an attack on Israel and renewed threats against Israel-linked shipping in the Red Sea. The development raised concerns about global trade and energy supplies. Israeli strikes reportedly hit locations in several Iranian cities, including a petrochemical facility in Mahshahr. Additionally, missile alert sirens briefly sounded near a Saudi air base hosting US forces before authorities declared the danger had passed.