Jerusalem: Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply as Iran launched a fresh wave of missiles toward Israel on Sunday, marking its first direct attack since the United States carried out airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

According to Israeli media reports, large-scale explosions were heard in Haifa, Tel Aviv, and several other areas.

In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the missile launches from Iranian territory and urged civilians to immediately seek shelter.

“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel,” the military said, adding that air defence systems were actively engaged in intercepting the threats.

The public was instructed to “enter a protected space and remain there until further notice.”

Iran's state TV also acknowledged the missile launches against Israel following the U.S. airstrikes.

"These live images you are seeing are of a new salvo of Iranian missiles fired on the occupied territories," said a presenter on air, referring to Israel. Citing "sources", a presenter said that "30 missiles have been launched at Israel from Iran".

The missile barrage follows days of heightened tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump announced “precision strikes” on key Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. Tehran had vowed retaliation, and Sunday’s strike appears to mark the first phase of its response.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage, and Israeli defence officials said they were assessing the situation.