IRGC Launches Kheibar Shekan Missiles at Israeli Sites in Operation True Promise 4
AI-generated from multiple sources. Verify before acting on this reporting.
TEHRAN (AP) — Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched a new phase of military operations early Monday, firing dual-base missile launchers equipped with Kheibar Shekan missiles at multiple locations across Israel. The strikes, announced by the IRGC as part of Wave 99 of Operation True Promise 4, targeted civilian and military infrastructure in Rishon LeZion, Petah Tikva, Tel Aviv, the Negev desert, Beersheba, and Dimona.
The attack began at approximately 11:43 a.m. UTC. IRGC officials stated the operation was a direct response to ongoing regional tensions and aimed to degrade Israeli defense capabilities. The Kheibar Shekan missile, a hypersonic weapon capable of evading advanced air defense systems, was deployed from mobile launchers positioned in Iranian territory. The IRGC confirmed the missiles were launched from dual-base systems, allowing for rapid repositioning and increased operational flexibility.
Israeli authorities reported multiple explosions across the targeted cities. Emergency services responded to damage in Tel Aviv and the southern Negev region. Civil defense sirens sounded in several urban centers as interceptors engaged incoming projectiles. The Israeli military confirmed that some missiles were intercepted by the Iron Dome and Arrow defense systems, while others struck their intended targets. Initial assessments indicate damage to infrastructure in Rishon LeZion and Petah Tikva, though casualty figures remain unconfirmed.
The operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Operation True Promise 4, which began earlier this year, has involved a series of coordinated strikes and counter-strikes across the region. Wave 99 represents the latest phase, with the IRGC signaling further actions may follow. Iranian state media broadcast footage of the launches, showing missile trails ascending into the sky from desert launch sites.
Israel has not yet issued an official statement regarding retaliation. Defense officials are assessing the extent of the damage and the effectiveness of the missile defense systems. The United States and other Western allies have called for restraint, urging both sides to avoid further escalation. Regional leaders have expressed concern over the potential for a broader conflict.
Questions remain regarding the full scope of the attack and whether additional waves are planned. The IRGC has not specified the duration of Operation True Promise 4 or the criteria for concluding the campaign. Military analysts are monitoring the situation for signs of further mobilization. The international community is awaiting updates on the humanitarian impact and the potential for diplomatic intervention.
As of Monday afternoon, no further strikes have been reported. However, the IRGC has indicated that the operation is ongoing and that additional phases may be activated depending on the outcome of current engagements. The situation remains fluid, with both sides maintaining high alert status.