Israel's air defence systems lit up the skies over Tel Aviv as they intercepted a fresh wave of Iranian ballistic missiles, according to videos circulating online. Bright streaks and mid-air flashes were seen over central Israel as the military responded to what Iran described as the latest phase of its retaliatory campaign, targeting cities including Tel Aviv, Dimona and Eilat, as well as military sites linked to the United States.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the strikes were part of a broader response to earlier attacks on Iranian interests, calling the targeted locations 'highly sensitive'. Israel has not confirmed all reported strikes but has stated that its air defence systems are actively intercepting incoming threats amid escalating regional tensions.

Israel relies on a multi-layered missile defence network to counter threats ranging from short-range rockets to long-range ballistic missiles. The top tier includes the Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems, designed to intercept missiles inside and outside the atmosphere. The mid-range David's Sling system targets ballistic missiles, aircraft and drones, while the Iron Dome system focuses on short-range rockets and unmanned aerial vehicles, engaging only those projected to hit populated areas.

Newer additions include the Iron Beam laser system, declared operational in late 2025, which uses directed energy to disable smaller aerial threats at lower cost. Israel has also received support from United States deployed Terminal High Altitude Area Defense systems and other military assets during previous escalations, reinforcing its ability to counter missile attacks.