Iran launched a wave of missile attacks on Israeli cities early Monday, following Israeli strikes on key military targets deep inside Iran. The ongoing hostilities have raised fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East.
Amid the barrage, the U.S. embassy branch in Tel Aviv sustained minor damage from nearby explosions, though no injuries to American personnel were reported. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, confirmed the incident on social media platform X, stating:
“Some minor damage from concussions of Iranian missile hits near Embassy Branch in @TelAviv but no injuries to US personnel.”
He added that the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem would remain closed on Monday due to ongoing “shelter in place” directives.
Images from the French news agency AFP showed damaged buildings in Tel Aviv, as Israeli air defense systems scrambled to intercept incoming rockets, including over the northern city of Haifa.
The latest exchange of fire comes after Israel’s recent strikes targeted Iranian military and nuclear sites, reportedly killing several high-ranking commanders and scientists. In response, Iran retaliated with missile salvos that have further escalated tensions between the two longtime adversaries.
A senior U.S. official revealed on Sunday that President Donald Trump had intervened to urge Israel not to proceed with a reported plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump has called for restraint and negotiations but acknowledged that “sometimes they have to fight it out” before diplomacy can take hold.
With both nations trading direct strikes, analysts warn the conflict could spiral into a wider regional war if not contained.
