Israelis Brace for Retaliation After Joint U.S.–Israel Strikes on Iran

Introduction

Sirens wailed across central Tel Aviv as residents rushed into underground shelters, light rail stations, and reinforced safe rooms following a wave of incoming missiles launched from Iran. The escalation came hours after Israel and the United States carried out coordinated strikes on targets inside Iran, dramatically intensifying tensions across the Middle East.

Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, declared a nationwide state of emergency as the country activated air defense systems and emergency response protocols. The declaration signaled the seriousness of the threat environment and placed hospitals, security forces, and civil defense units on heightened alert.