Iran responds to US airstrikes with immediate and chilling consequences, launching missiles at Israel and warning of further military action, as the region teeters on the edge of full-scale war.
Following a major overnight assault ordered by US President Donald Trump- targeting Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan- Iran has issued a series of escalating threats and launched retaliatory strikes.
Israel responded by shutting down schools, banning public gatherings, and instructing only essential businesses to remain open. As air-raid sirens blared in Tel Aviv, reports emerged of missile impacts and civilian injuries.
Hossein Shariatmadari, a senior figure representing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, declared Iran’s intention to hit back: “Now it is our turn. As a first step, fire missiles at the US naval fleet in Bahrain and close the Strait of Hormuz to American, British, German and French ships.”
Iran’s Foreign Ministry later issued an official statement warning that “the United States has launched a dangerous war” and would bear “full responsibility” for the consequences.
President Trump, via Truth Social, threatened to continue the aerial campaign with “greater” force if Iran retaliates. “Any retaliation by Iran against the United States of America will be met with force far greater than what was witnessed tonight,” he posted.
Yet Iran has already responded to the US airstrikes, with Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi calling the attacks a “grave violation of the UN Charter” and promising consequences that will be “everlasting”. On X, he stated:
“Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interests, and people.”
Analysts warn that retaliation could escalate rapidly. Retired US Army officer John Spencer noted Iran might activate regional allies such as Hezbollah or Shia militias in Iraq. “It could make the fatal mistake of launching ballistic missiles at American bases,” he added.
Omar Rahman, of the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, said Iran has its “back to the wall” and must act to preserve regime credibility. “That could mean strikes against US military installations or naval assets in the Persian Gulf.”
Meanwhile, Israel remains on high alert. The IDF’s Home Front Command has activated emergency protocols, closing schools nationwide and limiting civilian activity. Spokesman Avichay Adraee said the entire country has been moved to a state of essential operations only.
While Iran responds to US airstrikes, concern is growing that this is only the beginning of a larger conflict- one that could have global implications.
Read also: Europe launches diplomatic push to restrain Trump from Iran strike
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