Israel Launches Broad Wave of Strikes on Iran

Israel Launches Broad Wave of Strikes on Iran as Tehran Expands Regional Retaliation

Israel carried out a new series of large-scale military strikes on Iran early Wednesday, intensifying an already escalating confrontation that has spread across multiple countries in the region.

Israeli defense officials confirmed that a “broad wave” of coordinated attacks targeted strategic positions inside Iran shortly after midnight. The announcement came hours after Iran launched multiple missile barrages toward Israeli territory, resulting in minor injuries and localized damage.

The United States military separately stated that it has struck nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran since operations began. According to US Central Command, 17 Iranian naval vessels — including a submarine — have been destroyed. Officials also claimed that hundreds of missile launch systems, drones, and air defense units were neutralized.

The commander of US Central Command said operations have significantly weakened Iran’s defensive capabilities and restricted its naval movement in key waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding Gulf areas. He added that efforts are ongoing to locate and eliminate remaining mobile missile launchers.

The conflict has triggered broader instability across the Middle East. Iran expanded its response with missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked facilities in several countries. Incidents were reported near diplomatic sites and military installations in the Gulf region, with some attacks causing injuries and structural damage.

In Kuwait, local authorities confirmed casualties after falling debris from intercepted aerial targets struck residential areas. Meanwhile, a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman sustained damage after being hit by a projectile, though no injuries were reported.

Energy markets reacted sharply to the developments, with global oil prices climbing amid fears of disruption to shipping routes. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical passage for international oil exports, and security operations in the area have intensified.

Iranian authorities reported significant casualties following the strikes, though independent verification of the figures remains difficult due to restricted access. In Tehran, residents described empty streets and heightened security presence as many civilians evacuated amid ongoing air raids.

Several governments have begun arranging evacuation flights for citizens across the region, and diplomatic missions in multiple countries have temporarily suspended public operations.

Military analysts warn that if the current trajectory continues, the confrontation could reshape regional security dynamics and further destabilize global energy markets.

Investigations and military operations are ongoing as both sides continue exchanging strikes.