Iran launched around 100 drones toward Israel on Friday in a direct response to Israel’s widespread airstrikes across Iranian territory.
According to the Israeli military, air defense systems were quickly activated to intercept the incoming UAVs. The attack marks a major escalation in the conflict between the two rivals, following days of rising tension.
In response to the threat, Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency. The government closed schools, grounded commercial flights, and advised citizens to stay near bomb shelters. Sirens were heard in multiple cities as residents rushed to take cover. Emergency teams and the army remain on high alert for further retaliation.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had earlier vowed a severe response to any attack. A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the drone assault is just the beginning, and more actions are being discussed at the highest levels. Iran has called Israel’s actions a violation of international law and a threat to regional peace.
The price of one ounce of gold rose 1.11%, to currently stand at $3,424.60 as of 0615 GMT.
Gold had already reached record highs earlier this year, surpassing $3,400 amid global trade tensions triggered by US tariffs.
While prices had since stabilized at around $3,300 as trade fears eased, the latest escalation in the Middle East has once again boosted demand for the metal as a traditional “safe haven” asset.
According to Iranian media, the Israeli strikes began at around 3:00 a.m. local time (2330GMT) and targeted military and nuclear facilities, as well as residential areas.
The Israeli army said a total of 200 fighter jets took part in the assault, dropping 330 munitions on various targets.
Army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin confirmed the strikes and said Iran responded by launching over 100 drones toward Israel, with interception efforts still underway.
Defrin also confirmed the assassination of several senior Iranian officials in the strikes, including Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) chief Hossein Salami, and senior commander Gholam Ali Rashid.
Both countries have been bracing for potential full-scale conflict, with reports that Iran is preparing counterattacks involving ballistic missiles aimed at Israeli territory.
