Israel Bombs Iranian State TV Headquarters as Air War Enters Fifth Day

Tehran, Iran — June 17, 2025 — An Israeli airstrike on Iran’s state television headquarters early Tuesday killed three people, marking a dramatic escalation as the aerial conflict extended into its fifth day.

Iranian state media confirmed the early-morning strike, which came as part of an Israeli campaign targeting missile and drone installations in western Iran. Officials say the goal was to degrade Tehran’s long-range attack capabilities.

“In coordinated strikes, we neutralized multiple hostile sites, including UAV depots, missile launch platforms, and command centers,”

the Israel Defense Forces said in an official statement.

Shortly after, Iran launched a missile salvo targeting Israel. Air raid sirens blared across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, but Israel’s Iron Dome system intercepted most threats. Debris caused minor damage, but no casualties were reported.

“We are responding decisively to every threat,”

said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, Israeli military spokesperson. “Iran’s continued attacks will not go unanswered.”

The conflict began Friday, with Israel launching what officials describe as a strike to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions — a claim Tehran denies. Since then, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched multiple missile barrages, vowing to continue attacks “until the last hour of resistance” 2.

U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the G7 in Canada and returned to Washington, warning Tehran residents to evacuate amid looming threats. The USS Nimitz carrier was sent toward the Middle East, though U.S. officials emphasized a defensive stance.

The State Department issued a travel alert after Ambassador Mike Huckabee reported minor damage to a U.S. embassy-linked building in Tel Aviv 3. Israeli officials say 24 people have died in Israel, with hundreds injured. Iran claims over 220 fatalities, including civilians and military personnel, though figures remain unverified.

In a televised message, Prime Minister Netanyahu said the operation targeted Iran’s leadership and military assets. “This is not escalation. This is deterrence,” he said 4. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded: “There will be no diplomacy under fire… aggression must end before dialogue can begin.” 5

At the G7 summit, leaders including Trump called for a cease‑fire and regional de-escalation, reaffirming Iran must not develop nuclear weapons. China and other nations echoed similar calls 6.

Experts warn a prolonged conflict may destabilize the region and disrupt global energy markets. As civilians remain on high alert, the delicate balance between military action and diplomacy hangs in the balance.

This story was first reported by AFP.