Iran launches fresh missile attack on Israel; Sirens sounded across northern regions
Tel Aviv: Tensions in West Asia escalated further as Iran launched another wave of ballistic missiles targeting northern Israel on Tuesday, triggering sirens across several cities and forcing residents into shelters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the attack and said its defence systems were activated to intercept the missiles.
"A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran towards the territory of the State of Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat," the IDF said in a statement released on its official Telegram channel.
Cautioning the public, the IDF instructed citizens to immediately move into protected spaces and remain there until further notice. "Leaving the protected space is only permitted following an explicit directive. Continue to follow the instructions of the Home Front Command," the advisory said.
The latest missile barrage follows an earlier Israeli offensive that targeted several locations in Iran, particularly in its western region. The strikes reportedly damaged key parts of Iran's air defence systems. Israel has justified its actions by claiming Iran was close to achieving nuclear weapons capability — a scenario both Israel and the United States have identified as a critical red line.
In response, Iran carried out retaliatory strikes, targeting key Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — marking the first time such cities have come under direct attack from Tehran. Iran declared the missile strikes as a response to Israeli aggression.
Adding to the intensity of the conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly said that eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would bring an end to the hostilities. His statement comes a day after US President Donald Trump reportedly vetoed a similar proposal, highlighting international divisions over the handling of the crisis.
Over the past four days, both nations have exchanged missile and drone attacks, with civilians on both sides urged to prepare for a prolonged conflict. While Israel views Iran’s nuclear ambitions as an existential threat, Tehran accuses Israel of provocation and aggression.
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Congress’ downfall will start from Baramati if it doesn’t let Sunetra Pawar win unopposed: Bawankule
Nagpur (PTI): The Congress will have to face consequences if it doesn't allow NCP president and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar to win the Baramati assembly bypoll unopposed, said minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Thursday.
The party’s “downfall” will start from Baramati, he said, stressing that the people of Baramati and Maharashtra wish that she is elected unopposed, said the BJP leader.
The April 23 bye election was necessitated after the tragic death of deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who headed the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28. After his death, his wife Sunetra became the party president.
The NCP, BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena are partners in the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the state.
“The Congress will face consequences if it doesn’t let Sunetra win unopposed from Baramati. Its downfall will start from Baramati if it doesn’t withdraw its candidate,” Bawankule told reporters in Nagpur.
Amid efforts to ensure an unopposed contest, the Congress has fielded advocate Akash More for the bypoll.
The party had said that it would withdraw from the contest only if an FIR were registered in Ajit Pawar’s death in the Baramati plane crash.
Replying to another question, Bawankule said the BJP’s performance will be more robust in Assam and Kerala elections compared to the last assembly polls in these states. Assembly polls are being held in a single phase in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry on Thursday.
“These elections will once again show Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership commanding support among the people,” he said.
