Iran Warns U.S. Against Intervention, Launches Missile Barrage on Israel Amid Escalating Conflict

TEHRAN/TEL AVIV — Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically on Thursday as Iran issued a stern warning to the United States and launched a fresh wave of missile strikes on Israel, intensifying the ongoing military confrontation.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi declared that Tehran would have “no choice but to retaliate” if the United States aligns itself militarily with Israel in the conflict. Speaking to a U.S. television network, Ravanchi said, “We do not believe in nuclear weapons, but if the U.S. gets involved in war alongside Israel, then we will be forced to respond in self-defence.”

He emphasized that Iran would act “wherever it deems necessary,” calling this approach a “straightforward and clear policy.” Ravanchi also confirmed that Iran is not seeking to resume nuclear talks with Washington or Tel Aviv, signaling a hardened diplomatic posture amid the intensifying regional conflict.

Iran Launches Sejjil Missiles, Hits Israeli Targets

In a significant military development, Iran fired a fresh barrage of missiles toward Israel, including its first known deployment of the Sejjil ballistic missile, a high-speed, long-range weapon described by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as capable of penetrating Israel’s advanced air defence systems.

Iranian state media claimed the missiles struck multiple Israeli targets, including a hospital in southern Israel and locations near Tel Aviv, marking one of the most direct and damaging attacks to date. According to hospital officials, Soroka Medical Center—frequently used to treat soldiers wounded in Gaza—suffered extensive damage, and civilians were urged to avoid the facility.

Live footage on Iranian state television showed explosions over Tel Aviv as sirens wailed across Israel early Thursday. Loud blasts were also reported in Jerusalem, as Israeli defence forces acknowledged that “dozens of ballistic missiles” were launched from Iranian territory.

Read more: COAS Asim Munir, Trump call for resolution of Iran-Israel conflict: ISPR

Israeli Retaliation and Rising Stakes

In swift retaliation, Israeli forces launched additional missile strikes targeting Tehran, further heightening fears of a broader regional war. While Israeli officials have not provided detailed damage assessments, military sources indicated that key Iranian infrastructure may have been targeted.

Communications Cut and Global Concern

Amid the barrage, Iranian authorities temporarily shut down internet access in parts of the country, which analysts believe was a security measure to limit information flow during ongoing military operations.

The escalating exchange—now entering its seventh consecutive day—has sparked global alarm, with world leaders urging restraint and warning of potential consequences for regional stability and global energy markets.

As the conflict intensifies, all eyes remain on Washington, where the Biden administration faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance amid warnings from Tehran and growing Israeli calls for international support.