Israel Launches Ballistic Missiles Against Iran in Ceasefire Violation, IRGC Says

TEHRAN — The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps announced early Sunday that Israel launched air-launched ballistic missiles against multiple targets inside Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions and a violation of a ceasefire agreement.

The IRGC stated the attack occurred at approximately 02:33 local time on June 8, 2026, targeting military and strategic sites in Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz. The announcement came hours after Iranian forces conducted missile strikes on occupied territories in response to Israeli attacks on Beirut.

The IRGC described the Israeli strikes as a direct retaliation for Iran's earlier actions, which were framed as a response to the bombardment of Lebanese cities. Iranian officials characterized the missile launches as a breach of the ceasefire terms that had been in place since the previous month.

Israeli officials have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the specific nature of the strikes, though military sources in Tel Aviv acknowledged that air operations were conducted against Iranian targets. The Israeli Defense Forces did not confirm whether the weapons used were ballistic missiles or other munitions.

Emergency services in Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz responded to the reported impacts, with local authorities reporting minor damage to several facilities. No immediate casualties were reported, though officials in the affected cities have ordered heightened security measures and restricted movement in certain areas.

The incident marks the first major exchange of ballistic missiles between the two nations since the ceasefire agreement was signed. Regional diplomats have expressed concern that the escalation could destabilize the broader Middle East, with several countries calling for immediate de-escalation.

Iranian state media broadcast footage of the aftermath, showing smoke rising from targeted locations. The IRGC vowed to respond to what it termed an act of aggression, though no specific details regarding the nature or timing of a potential counterstrike were provided.

International observers are monitoring the situation closely, with the United Nations and several regional powers urging both sides to exercise restraint. The ceasefire agreement, which had been brokered with the involvement of several international mediators, remains in effect, though its future is now uncertain.

Questions remain regarding the full extent of the damage and whether further retaliatory actions are imminent. Both nations have mobilized additional military assets in the region, raising concerns about a broader conflict. Diplomatic channels are reportedly active as world leaders seek to prevent further escalation.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides maintaining high alert status. Further developments are expected as the day progresses.