Tel Aviv, Israel — June 19, 2025
Fresh video footage surfacing just minutes ago has confirmed a large-scale rocket attack on multiple cities across central and southern Israel, sending residents scrambling for shelter and raising fears of a full-scale military escalation.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), more than 150 rockets were fired in rapid succession from the Gaza Strip late Thursday afternoon. Air raid sirens blared throughout Tel Aviv, Ashkelon, and Be’er Sheva, while dramatic videos uploaded to social media show the Iron Dome missile defense system intercepting several incoming projectiles mid-air.
Initial reports confirm several buildings were struck in Ashdod and Sderot, with at least 7 civilians injured, including two children. Emergency response teams are actively combing through damaged structures for possible casualties.
“This is one of the most intense barrages we’ve seen in recent months,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Regev, a spokesperson for the IDF. “Our forces are actively responding, and retaliatory operations have already begun targeting key militant infrastructure in Gaza.”
The rocket fire follows days of growing tension in the region, including clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and an earlier drone strike that reportedly killed a senior member of the Islamic Jihad group.
Hamas has not yet officially claimed responsibility for the attack, but Palestinian militant factions in Gaza have issued statements warning of “open conflict” if Israeli military actions continue in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu convened an emergency security meeting in Jerusalem, stating:
“We will respond with strength and precision. Those who harm Israel will pay the price.”
The United Nations and international leaders have called for restraint, urging both sides to avoid further escalation. However, the situation remains highly volatile, and residents are being urged to stay near bomb shelters as air raid alerts continue to sound.
This is a developing story. More details and live updates to follow.
— Reported by Leah Stein, Middle East Correspondent
Footage and interviews available via [News Network].
