Explosions echoed across Israel on Friday afternoon following a barrage of approximately 20 to 30 missiles launched from Iran. Citizens were instructed to seek shelter in protected spaces as Operation Rising Lion enters its second week. Initial reports indicate a 16-year-old boy sustained severe injuries from shrapnel to his upper body during one of the strikes in the latest volley. A man in his 40s sustained severe injuries while a man in 50s was moderately wounded, and several others were treated for light injuries. The number of casualties will likely rise as first responders comb through the scenes.
Reports indicate two impact sites in the north, two in the central region, and two in the south. Teams from Magen David Adom (MDA) first responders are actively responding at the scenes, conducting searches for additional casualties.
Israeli Police received reports of munition fragments falling within the southern district and open areas. No additional casualties have been reported, though property damage occurred. Police forces and bomb disposal units are operating at the impact sites, conducting sweeps for other potential strike zones, and urging the public to avoid these areas and follow officers' instructions.
Interceptions were observed in the skies above Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh, with explosions clearly audible in central Israel. Additional interceptions were reported over the Eilat Gulf in the southern region.
Due to the situation, a rescue flight from Thailand scheduled to land at Ben Gurion Airport was forced to alter its route and forced to delay its landing.
