Israel Bombs Iranian State TV As Air War Rages Into Fifth Day

 On June 17, 2025, Israel executed a precision airstrike on the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) headquarters in Tehran’s northern District 3, disrupting a live broadcast and escalating the ongoing air war between Israel and Iran, now in its fifth day. 

The attack targeted what Israel described as a “communications center” used by the Iranian military under the guise of civilian infrastructure, located in a densely populated area near police headquarters, international embassies, and major hospitals like Shariati Hospital. During the strike, IRIB anchor Sahar Emami was forced to abandon a live broadcast as debris fell and explosions shook the studio, with footage showing her fleeing in panic. Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strike as a “heinous war crime” and a “blatant violation of press freedom,” with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi vowing that Iran’s armed forces would “pummel Israel until its aggression ceases.” 

Israel issued an evacuation warning to approximately 330,000 residents of central Tehran hours before the attack, citing imminent military action. The conflict, which began on June 13, stems from heightened tensions following Iran’s alleged support for regional proxies and its nuclear ambitions. Israel has targeted key Iranian infrastructure, including the Natanz uranium enrichment facility, ballistic missile production sites, and air defense systems, claiming to have destroyed a third of Iran’s missile launchers and achieved “full air superiority” over Tehran. 

Iran retaliated with a barrage of over 200 missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, resulting in 24 civilian deaths and 592 injuries in Israel. Iranian state media reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, and over 1,200 injuries due to Israeli airstrikes. The conflict has triggered mass displacement, with highways out of Tehran clogged as residents flee. Internationally, the G7 summit in Canada was overshadowed by the crisis, with leaders urging de-escalation. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has expressed support for Israel’s actions, called for Tehran residents to evacuate, a move China criticized as inflammatory. Over 600 foreigners have fled Iran into Azerbaijan, and China issued an urgent advisory for its citizens to leave Iran, accusing Trump of escalating the conflict.