Tehran [Iran], March 20 (ANI): Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its latest wave of strikes targeted areas in central and southern Israel, including Tel Aviv, as well as US military bases across the region, Al Jazeera reported, citing the IRGC-linked Fars news agency.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that missiles were launched from Iran towards Israeli territory, prompting the activation of air defence systems to intercept the incoming threats.

Also Read | Middle East Conflict: Iran's Mounting Attacks on Gulf Oil and Gas Sites Send Energy Prices Higher.

In a post shared on X, the IDF said on Friday, "The IDF has identified that a short while ago, missiles were launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. The defense systems are operating to intercept the threat."

https://x.com/idfonline/status/2034748836816535735

Also Read | Middle East Conflict: PM Narendra Modi Condemns Strikes on Qatar Energy Infrastructure During Talks With Amir Al Thani.

Authorities also issued emergency alerts to civilians in affected areas. The Home Front Command sent preliminary directives directly to mobile phones, urging residents to immediately move to protected spaces.

"The defense systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the last few minutes, the Home Front Command has issued a preliminary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas. The public is requested to exercise responsibility and act in accordance with the directives--they save lives," the post further read.

The IDF added that civilians should not leave protected areas until an explicit directive is given.

"One must enter protected spaces upon receiving the alert and remain in them until a new announcement. Exit from the protected space will be permitted only after receiving an explicit directive; continue to act in accordance with the Home Front Command's directives," it added.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said US aggression against Iran and the assassination of its former supreme leader "represents a new approach in international disputes that will demolish the legal systems of the world."

In a post on X, he warned, "If the international community does not firmly stand against this crisis, the fire of this flame will burn the robes of many."

https://x.com/drpezeshkian/status/2034752302737916111

The development comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with both sides engaged in an escalating conflict marked by missile exchanges and military operations. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)