Smoke rises over Tel Aviv as Iran strikes back following Israeli attacks

A thick column of smoke loomed over the coastal Israeli city of Tel Aviv on Friday, following missile fire from Iran in retaliation to a series of Israeli strikes, according to an AFP journalist on the ground.

The plume of smoke was seen rising above the city’s skyline, with loud explosions echoing through the air, the journalist reported.

In response to the Israeli offensive, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed fierce retaliation, warning that Israel's actions would ultimately lead to its downfall.

“The armed forces of the Islamic Republic will deliver powerful blows to this wicked enemy,” Khamenei declared during a televised address. He warned that the consequences of Israel's aggression “will bring it to ruin.”

Iranian state media also reported that the country’s air defenses had successfully downed two Israeli fighter jets. “At least two Israeli fighter jets were shot down in Iranian airspace,” state-run IRNA news agency stated, offering no additional details.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military confirmed that missiles had been launched from Iran toward its territory and issued urgent instructions for citizens to seek shelter.

“A short while ago, the IDF detected missile launches from Iran aimed at Israeli territory,” read an official statement. “The public is instructed to enter protected shelters and remain there until further notice.”