...
By Shane Croucher and Amir Daftari
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The entrance gate of Iran's notorious Evin Prison, which holds political prisoners and dual nationals, was hit as Israel carried out a wave of coordinated airstrikes, targeting multiple sites across Tehran.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar confirmed the assault, which struck dozens of locations, including barracks in Karaj, the Energy Ministry, Shahid Beheshti University, state TV headquarters, and police compounds.
Newsweek has reached out the Iran and Israel's foreign ministries for comment.
Read More on World
Why It Matters
The intensification of strikes on Tehran—following Friday's U.S. bombardment of Iran's nuclear facilities—signals an expansion of the conflict with global repercussions. The coordinated escalation by Washington and Tel Aviv deepens the risk of broader confrontation across the Middle East, potentially drawing in regional powers and disrupting global energy markets. As major urban and symbolic targets come under direct attack, the strikes undermine diplomatic efforts, increase volatility in international markets, and raise the prospect of retaliatory actions that could extend far beyond Iran's borders.
...
What to Know
According to local reports and Iranian state media, the strikes began around 12 noon local time. Blasts were heard across several Tehran districts including Valenjak, Saadat Abad and Shahrak-e Gharb. Windows shattered in residential areas, and electricity was disrupted. One explosion occurred near Vanak Square and another in the vicinity of the IRIB state broadcasting center. The entrance gate of Evin Prison was among the confirmed sites struck, causing parts of the prison's perimeter walls to collapse onto a parking lot.
A video posted on X by Iran's Press TV showed the moment of impact at the prison.
Why Evin Prison Matters
Evin Prison is synonymous with political detention in Iran. Housing dissidents, journalists, protesters, and foreign nationals accused of espionage, it is a core element of the Iranian regime's domestic security apparatus. The targeting of its gate and administrative offices may not cripple operations but carries deep symbolic weight—highlighting the vulnerability of Iran's internal repressive institutions. Human rights organizations have long documented abuse, torture and arbitrary detention within Evin's walls.
Airports Also Hit
Earlier on the same day, Israeli fighter jets launched strikes on six major airports across western, eastern, and central Iran—specifically targeting Tabriz, Mashhad, Dezful, Hamedan, Shahid Beheshti, and Tehran's Mehrabad airport. The IDF said the strikes aimed to degrade Iran's air operations by destroying runways, underground hangars, fuel systems, and multiple aircraft types including F-14s, F-5s and AH-1 helicopters.
Iran Vows Revenge
Meanwhile, Iran's top military commander warned that Iran will retaliate against U.S. strikes and is ready to target American interests. Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said Iran will take action against the U.S. military and other interests and will never back down.
...
What People Are Saying
Israel Katz, Israel's defence minister: "The IDF is currently striking with unprecedented force regime targets and governmental repression bodies in the heart of Tehran."
Iran's Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi: "The hands of Islam's fighters ... have been freed to take any action against [U.S.] interests and military, and we will never back down."
What Happens Next
Iran's military leadership is meeting to coordinate a response, with options reportedly including drone retaliation and potential disruptions to Persian Gulf shipping lanes. Israel has indicated further operations inside Iranian territory are imminent, and Western officials are closely monitoring for signs of Iranian escalation or proxy mobilization.
...
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines