Tehran/Jerusalem: The Middle East has once again been pushed to the brink of a potentially devastating regional conflict. In retaliation for a recent Iranian missile attack, Israel launched a series of intensive airstrikes early Monday targeting central and western parts of Iran, sharply escalating tensions across the region and raising fears of a broader war.

Explosions Rock Multiple Iranian Cities

According to Iranian state television, several powerful explosions were heard across key parts of the country in the early hours of Monday.

The blasts were reported in major cities including Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, and Tabriz. A witness in Tehran confirmed that at least one large explosion occurred in the western part of the capital.

Iranian Airspace Closed

Following the Israeli strikes, Iranian authorities shut down the airspace around Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran as a precautionary measure, suspending civilian flights in the area.

Iran’s paramilitary force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), claimed that Israel used “air-launched ballistic missiles” during the operation. However, Iranian officials have not yet disclosed details regarding casualties, damage assessments, or the specific military sites targeted.

Israel Confirms Strikes on Military Targets

In a brief statement, the Israeli military said that its air force had carried out attacks on military targets in western and central Iran.

“A short while ago, the Israeli Air Force struck military sites in western and central Iran,” the statement said, without providing further operational details.

Missile Launched from Yemen

The latest escalation also coincided with reports of a missile launch from Yemen. Large portions of Yemen remain under the control of the Iran-backed Houthi movement, which has previously launched missiles toward Israel during and after the Israel-Hamas conflict.

While the Houthis have not claimed responsibility for the latest missile launch, analysts note that the group has often acknowledged attacks after a delay.

Israeli emergency services reported no casualties or missile impacts resulting from the incident.

Sirens Sound Near U.S. Air Base in Saudi Arabia

Meanwhile, air raid sirens were activated Monday morning in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Kharj Province, where the strategically important Prince Sultan Air Base—hosting U.S. military personnel—is located.

Saudi state media reported that the warning was issued following concerns over a possible missile threat after the Israeli strikes on Iran. Authorities later announced that the danger had passed, though no additional details were provided.

White House Yet to Respond

The White House did not immediately comment on the Israeli strikes or on questions regarding any potential coordination between Washington and Jerusalem.

The latest exchange of attacks has intensified concerns that the long-running confrontation between Israel and Iran could evolve into a wider regional conflict, with significant implications for global security, energy markets, and geopolitical stability across the Middle East.