Tel Aviv, June 19, 2025 – A surprise missile attack by Iran early this morning struck the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE), causing significant damage and raising fears of escalating regional tensions. The strike, which occurred just before dawn, targeted Israel’s financial hub, marking a dramatic escalation in hostilities between the two nations.
According to Israeli defense officials, multiple missiles were intercepted by the Iron Dome system, but at least one penetrated defenses, hitting the stock exchange building. The blast shattered windows, damaged infrastructure, and sparked a fire, though casualties were reportedly minimal due to the early hour. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and trading was immediately suspended.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility, stating the attack was retaliation for what it called “Israeli aggression” against its interests in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the strike as an “unprovoked act of war” and vowed a “swift and severe response.”
The attack sent shockwaves through global markets, with oil prices surging over fears of a broader Middle East conflict. The Israeli shekel also dipped sharply in early trading. Analysts warn that further strikes could destabilize the region, drawing in other nations.
The United Nations Security Council has called an emergency meeting, while the U.S. reaffirmed its “unwavering support” for Israel. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions are underway, but with both sides signaling readiness for confrontation, the situation remains volatile.
As investigations continue, Israel has heightened its military alert level, raising concerns of an impending counterstrike. The world watches anxiously as the risk of full-scale conflict grows.
—Reuters contributed to this report.
