Thousands of residents fled Iran’s capital, Tehran, on Sunday following a series of Israeli airstrikes that targeted several parts of the city, sparking fear and panic.
Eyewitnesses and local reports confirmed that strikes hit locations in Niavaran, Azadi, and central districts of Tehran. Explosions were heard across the city, and many residents described the night as one of chaos and fear.
A resident from southern Tehran told Iran International, “They just hit now. Khamenei, end this war,” referencing Iran’s Supreme Leader amid growing anger and concern over the escalation.
As news of the attacks spread, heavy traffic was reported on all major routes out of the capital. Iran’s traffic police confirmed that vehicle movement had spiked significantly on the Tehran-North highway, Tehran-Qom road, and the Haraz route.
Israeli media outlets said the strikes were part of a coordinated attack on several “designated targets” in Tehran. While Iran has not officially commented on the damage or casualties, the strikes mark one of the most direct attacks on the Iranian capital in recent years.
The incident comes amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, with fears that the conflict could escalate further and spill into wider regional warfare. There are growing concerns that the crisis could spark unrest not only within Iran but across the Middle East.
As of Sunday evening, no official death toll had been released, but the widespread panic and the speed at which Tehran residents evacuated point to the seriousness of the situation.
The international community has yet to respond, but observers warn that continued escalation could push the region into deeper instability.
