Tensions Escalate as Iran Downs Israeli Jets

A dramatic escalation in the Middle East unfolded Friday as Iranian forces reportedly shot down two Israeli fighter jets over Iranian territory, according to state-run Iranian media. The confrontation came amid what Iran described as a large-scale air assault by Israel.

The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported the downing of the jets but offered no further details on the aircraft type or the specific location of the incident. The report marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between the two countries.

In a swift response, Iranian military forces launched what they called a “retaliatory wave” of hypersonic missile attacks targeting sites across Israel. Iranian media said the strikes were part of a broader response to what Tehran considers acts of aggression by the Israeli military.

“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic have initiated large-scale strikes targeting military infrastructure across Israel,” Iranian sources stated. “These actions are a direct response to recent Israeli attacks on Iranian territory.”

Inside Israel, authorities urged civilians to avoid open areas and sites that could be potential targets, as ballistic missile strikes continued to land across various regions. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and heavily armed police units have been deployed nationwide to support rescue efforts and maintain public order.

“Special operations teams, bomb squads, and emergency response personnel are being stationed strategically throughout the country to address immediate threats and assist civilians,” Israeli police said in a public notice.

Diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis appeared to falter. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected international appeals for restraint, emphasising Iran’s right to defend itself. In a call with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Araghchi made it clear that Iran would not back down in the face of what it views as Israeli provocation.

The international community has expressed growing concern over the situation, warning that further escalation could destabilise the region and lead to wider conflict.