Israel has launched airstrikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities, prompting a nationwide state of emergency as Iran vows retaliation and the region braces for further conflict.

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Israel Strikes Iran, Declares State of Emergency Across Its Territory

On June 12, 2025, Israel initiated a series of airstrikes targeting Tehran and other cities in Iran, including Tabriz and Kermanshah. Explosions were reported in at least five locations in Tehran, with air raid sirens sounding in Tel Aviv. In response to the attacks, Israel declared a state of emergency nationwide, closing schools and heightening security measures.

#BreakingNews | The Israeli military announced an airstrike against Iran. Israeli Army Radio announced that the regime's air force had carried out an airstrike against Iran pic.twitter.com/DTOHzCPBI5

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) June 13, 2025

Prior to the strikes, Iran had already conducted large-scale, unplanned military exercises and placed its armed forces on high alert. Iranian officials issued strong warnings of retaliation against Israel and the United States if further attacks occur. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps increased activity at missile launch sites across key provinces, signaling readiness for escalation.

In Iraq, Popular Mobilization Forces commanders coordinated military responses in case of Israeli or U.S. aggression, while the U.S. continued evacuating non-essential embassy staff from the region, reflecting growing concerns over potential conflict.

Minutes after the airstrikes, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the attack as a preventive measure against Iran. Katz warned that missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory and civilians are expected imminently.

He signed a “special order” declaring a state of emergency across Israel and urged citizens to follow instructions from the Home Front Command and authorities, advising them to remain in protected areas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) also prohibited educational activities, gatherings, and workplaces except for essential sectors.

The airstrikes and heightened military activity coincide with ongoing indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S., scheduled for June 15 in Oman. Analysts view these actions as attempts by the U.S. and Israel to pressure Iran into making concessions during the negotiations.

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