Explosions rock Tabriz; Israeli air defence failures raise alarm; top Iranian commander reportedly killed
TEHRAN/JERUSALEM – Tensions escalated sharply on Tuesday as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the launch of a “more powerful” new wave of missiles toward Israel, according to Iranian state media IRNA. The attack marks a continued exchange of hostilities now entering its fifth day.
Explosions in Tabriz amid escalating conflict
Two loud explosions were reported in Tabriz, a strategic city in northwestern Iran, early Tuesday morning. According to local news outlet Ham Mihan, the blasts occurred five minutes apart, with Mehr News Agency sharing footage showing thick smoke rising from the area. Tabriz, located over 600 km from Tehran, hosts a major Iranian air force base that has been reportedly targeted by Israeli strikes in recent days.
Israeli military claims killing Iran’s wartime chief
In a significant development, the Israeli military announced it had killed Ali Shadmani, who it described as Iran’s wartime chief of staff and the most senior military commander targeted in the conflict so far. The claim has not been independently verified by Iranian authorities.
Failed Israeli air defences shake public confidence
The latest missile barrage has sparked panic across Israel, where reports suggest that the country’s air defence system failed to intercept multiple Iranian projectiles, triggering widespread public anxiety. Israeli citizens have expressed shock at the perceived vulnerability of the state’s defences, while Palestinian citizens of Israel commented that they have never felt secure, even in calmer times.
India evacuates students from Tehran
Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs reported that Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city due to safety concerns amid the escalating Iran-Israel confrontation. Others capable of arranging their own transportation were advised to leave as a precaution.
