Missile strikes rock Tel Aviv, Jerusalem; IDF hits Iran's Arak reactor

A fresh wave of Iranian missiles targeted central and northern Israel early Thursday, triggering air raid sirens across major cities, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that projectiles were launched from Iran and stated that its air defense systems were actively intercepting incoming threats.

Multiple explosions were reported in both cities, with local media identifying at least four impact sites across Israel. The IDF has urged the public to seek shelter and remain indoors “until further notice” as defensive operations continue.

Among the locations hit was Soroka Medical Center in Be’er Sheva, where damage was reported following the strikes. Additional missile impacts were confirmed in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Holon.

In retaliation, Israeli forces reportedly struck Iran’s Arak heavy-water nuclear reactor—a facility long regarded by Western powers with concern due to its potential to produce plutonium for nuclear weapons. According to Reuters, citing Iranian state television, the site was hit shortly after Israeli authorities warned residents in the Arak-Khondab region to evacuate.