Israel launched a series of airstrikes in central and western Iran early Monday, responding to missile fire from Tehran, according to reports. The strikes have heightened fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East, as analyzed in an editorial brief. Iranian state television reported explosions in cities including Isfahan, Karaj, Tabriz, and Tehran. A witness in Tehran described hearing a large blast west of the capital.

In response to the airstrikes, Iran closed its airspace at Imam Khomeini International Airport, the country's main airfield, though officials have not provided details on the strike targets or any damage incurred. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed that Israel used air-launched ballistic missiles in the attacks.

The Israeli military confirmed the strikes in a brief statement at dawn, stating, "A short while ago, the Israeli Air Force struck military targets belonging to the Iranian terror regime in western and central Iran." However, they did not elaborate further.

The White House has not responded to messages regarding the strikes and possible U.S. coordination, as ceasefire negotiations between Iran and the U.S. have stalled, partly due to ongoing Israel-Hezbollah clashes. Israel's recent military movements in southern Lebanon, areas not held for over 25 years, have added to regional tensions.

On Sunday, Israel conducted airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, prompting Iran to retaliate with a strike on Israel, which led to Monday's Israeli response. U.S. President Donald Trump, in an interview with Fox News, expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, stating, "I'm not happy about it." Trump has urged Iran to cease missile fire and return to negotiations. A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, revealed that Trump called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him not to retaliate immediately for the Iranian missile attack, claiming, "got Bibi to hold off for the time being." Netanyahu's office has not commented on the matter.