A series of powerful Israeli airstrikes struck key targets in and around Tehran on Monday, intensifying an already escalating conflict in the region. One of the most high-profile targets reportedly hit was the notorious Evin prison, a facility widely known for housing political prisoners and dual nationals often at the center of diplomatic tensions between Iran and the West.
According to Iranian state television and judiciary-affiliated Mizan news agency, the Israeli strike damaged portions of the Evin prison complex. Surveillance footage of the impact — which appears to be black-and-white security camera footage — began circulating on social media shortly after the attack. Despite the damage, officials insisted that the situation within the prison remained under control.
Evin prison, located in northwestern Tehran, is partially controlled by Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and is subject to sanctions by both the United States and the European Union. It has been a long-standing symbol of Iran’s repression of dissent and a holding center for individuals with ties to Western nations.
Expanded Targets in the Capital
Beyond Evin prison, the Israeli strikes reportedly targeted several strategic and security-related sites in Tehran. These included the main headquarters of the IRGC in the city, the Basij paramilitary volunteer corps building, and an area near Palestine Square, which houses multiple government and security offices.
The Basij, a volunteer wing of the IRGC, plays a key role in internal security and has been heavily involved in quelling protests in recent years. Damage to these institutions could significantly impact Iran’s security operations in the capital.
Local news sources also reported that the strikes disrupted parts of Tehran’s power infrastructure. Sections of the city experienced temporary blackouts due to what was described as damage to a key power supply system.
Fordow Nuclear Site Reportedly Struck Again
In a significant development, an Iranian news agency claimed that the Fordow nuclear facility, located deep in the mountains south of Tehran, was among the targets hit in Monday’s bombardment. The Fordow site is a critical component of Iran’s uranium enrichment program and is heavily fortified against aerial attack.
The facility had reportedly already been hit over the weekend by U.S. bunker-busting munitions, in what appeared to be a coordinated operation between the United States and Israel. Monday’s renewed strike on Fordow suggests an ongoing effort by Israel to degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities amid rising tensions.
Israeli and Iranian Responses
Israel’s Ministry of Defense, in a strong statement following the strikes, said: “The Iranian dictator will be punished with full force for attacking the Israeli home front.” The language signals that the Israeli government views these operations not as isolated strikes but as part of a broader retaliatory campaign in response to Iranian aggression.
On the other side, Iran launched a counteroffensive on Monday, firing a barrage of missiles toward Israel. Tehran has also vowed to retaliate against the United States, accusing Washington of direct involvement in attacks on its critical infrastructure.
Though the full extent of damage from Monday’s exchanges remains unclear, both sides appear committed to further escalations. The developments mark a dangerous new phase in the long-simmering confrontation between Israel and Iran — one that now directly involves strategic and nuclear-related assets.
Regional Implications and International Concern
The latest strikes have raised alarm in diplomatic circles, with analysts warning of the potential for a broader conflict in the region. The targeting of a facility like Evin prison, in particular, carries symbolic and diplomatic consequences, given the international attention often focused on its detainees, some of whom hold dual citizenship with Western countries.
The Fordow strike, meanwhile, underscores growing international concern over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the willingness of both Israel and the United States to act unilaterally against suspected threats.
As the situation develops, world leaders are calling for restraint and renewed dialogue to prevent a full-scale regional war. However, with rhetoric hardening and military action intensifying, the path forward appears increasingly fraught with danger.
