Dozens Dead as Israel and Iran Exchange Strikes
Israel and Iran exchanged heavy strikes overnight Saturday, with attacks hitting homes in Israel and key sites in Tehran. Israeli officials reported 10 fatalities, including two children, and over 100 injuries. Iran’s health ministry stated 128 Iranians were killed and about 900 injured in Israeli attacks.
In Bat Yam, an Iranian strike on a residential block killed six, including two children. Four others died in Tamra. “Some were crying… I saw fear in their eyes,” said rescue paramedic Ori Lazarovich. One resident told the BBC, “We’ve been here 24 years and now we have to start over.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Iran would pay a “very heavy price.” Israel claims it hit over 80 Tehran targets, including defense sites. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi defended Iran’s right to retaliate.
Former crown prince Reza Pahlavi said attacks have “re-energised” anti-regime sentiment. Donald Trump said U.S. involvement is “possible,” and welcomed Russian mediation.