The Israeli military has instructed thousands of residents to evacuate central Tehran to prevent casualties as its air operations in the Iranian capital seem to widen on the fourth day of rising conflict.
This warning from Israel comes after U.S. President Donald Trump urged the immediate evacuation of Iran’s state-run television station, stating, “IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” and urging, “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” Previously, the Israeli military had called for the swift departure of approximately 330,000 residents from a central neighborhood in Tehran, hinting that the next stage of the campaign might include more direct assaults on densely populated areas.
This situation is particularly concerning due to Tehran’s large population, about 10 million, which is roughly equivalent to the population of Israel itself, raising the risk of mass displacement and humanitarian issues.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told reporters on Tuesday that the ongoing strikes have significantly delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions and confirmed his regular communication with Trump regarding the situation.
“The regime is very weak,” Netanyahu claimed, suggesting that Israel sees a chance to further apply pressure on Tehran. Israel maintains that its extensive attacks on Iran’s key military leaders, uranium enrichment sites, and nuclear scientists are crucial to stop its longstanding adversary from making further advances in developing a nuclear weapon.
To date, the airstrikes have led to at least 224 fatalities in Iran since Friday, prompting many civilians to flee in terror. In retaliation, Iran has launched over 370 missiles and numerous drones at various Israeli targets, escalating the situation into a full-blown regional conflict.
The Israeli government has confirmed that 24 individuals have died on its side, with more than 500 others injured.
Tensions intensified further on Tuesday when the Israeli military reported a fresh wave of missile assaults, with loud explosions audible across northern Israel, indicating that Iran’s retaliation continues and possibly broadens in intensity.