Tensions between Israel and Iran reached a new peak on Monday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Tehran residents to evacuate amid signs of potential military escalation.
During a high-profile visit to an Israeli airbase, Netanyahu claimed that Israel was close to meeting its strategic goals, which include dismantling Iran’s nuclear ambitions and neutralising missile threats.
“If we command the air over Tehran, we will hit the regime’s critical infrastructure,” he said. “Our message to civilians in Tehran: get out of the area. We will act.”
His comments came alongside an “urgent evacuation warning” issued by the Israeli military to people living in a major 30-square-kilometre section of the Iranian capital. The area in question includes foreign diplomatic missions, luxury residences, and busy commercial hubs. It is believed to be home to around 300,000 residents.
Reports from Tehran suggest explosions were heard in the western part of the city on Monday, while airstrikes were also reported in the eastern districts.
Israel’s use of such pre-strike warnings has drawn criticism during its operations in Gaza, where mass evacuations have often failed to prevent civilian casualties.
Netanyahu accused Iran of initiating attacks on Israeli civilians and asserted that Israel’s military response would be both targeted and uncompromising.
As the situation evolves, concerns are growing that the conflict could spiral into a wider confrontation, drawing in multiple actors across the region.
