On Friday night, loud explosions rocked Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as air raid sirens echoed across Israel. According to Israel’s military, the country was under attack from hundreds of ballistic missiles launched by Iran in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure at Natanz.
Iran’s state agency IRNA confirmed the response, describing it as a counterstrike for the “largest ever Israeli attack” which reportedly targeted underground facilities and high-ranking military officials.
Modi’s Call for Peace
Amid the chaos, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a call from Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, who briefed him on the unfolding situation. Modi posted:
“Received a phone call from PM Netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasized the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”
India’s position remains neutral but firmly calls for de-escalation, reiterating the importance of diplomacy.
Situation on the Ground
There are currently no confirmed reports of civilian deaths, but air defense systems were activated across Iranian cities. Tel Aviv, described as densely populated, became a focal point, raising concerns over civilian safety.
Meanwhile, Israeli PM Netanyahu justified the strikes as a defense against an “existential threat,” invoking historical parallels with World War II and the Holocaust.
Global Reactions: Call for Diplomacy
Former U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in, stating, “It’s not too late for Iran to halt the bombing campaign and return to negotiations over its nuclear program.”
Meanwhile, the international community has begun voicing concerns over the possibility of full-scale war in the Middle East. The presence of critical nuclear sites in the affected areas has further heightened fears.
Explosions Near Tehran and Qom
As night fell, Iranian media reported multiple explosions near Tehran and Qom, including strikes near the Fordow nuclear facility. In response, air defenses were activated across Iran, and heavy anti-aircraft fire was observed over key locations.
The Israeli military confirmed they had struck additional targets in Isfahan, including missile depots and alleged drone facilities.
Balancing Strategic Concerns and Humanitarian Appeals
The use of missiles and targeting of urban areas has reignited debate around international law and the ethics of warfare. With PM Modi’s call for peace, India has once again emphasized its role as a global voice of moderation and dialogue, urging for diplomatic solutions to prevent further civilian harm.
As tensions continue to escalate, all eyes are on the United Nations, regional powers, and diplomatic stakeholders to bring both nations back to the negotiation table.
