Fighting between Israel and Iran has intensified, with both sides exchanging attacks while Israeli military operations also continue in neighbouring Lebanon, raising concerns about a widening regional conflict.
Developments on the battlefield have unfolded alongside growing pressure on Israeli authorities to address public concerns about the consequences of the war, including disruptions to daily life and economic activity. Reporting from Ramla in the occupied West Bank during an update broadcast by Al Jazeera, correspondent Nour Odeh said Israeli leaders are increasingly expected to clarify the scope and objectives of the expanding military campaign.
The conflict has evolved beyond its initial phase, with Israel not only striking targets inside Iran but also continuing military operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. This broader engagement has prompted questions domestically about how long the confrontation may last and what its wider implications could be.
While the update was ongoing, Al Jazeera cut to a live press briefing by an Israeli military spokesperson addressing the state of the campaign. During the briefing, the official defended the military operation, presenting it as a security measure intended to counter what Israel views as a long-term threat.
"Instructions and restrictions. We will continue to coordinate with other factors in order to launch the necessary offensive and wherever we are able to uh ease the restrictions we do so. However, this campaign was necessary and we launched this campaign for the safety and security of the state of Israel once and for all."
The spokesperson also disclosed that Israel had mobilised a large number of reserve forces to support the military effort across multiple fronts.
"uh in the last week we recalled more than 100,000 of the reserves to them and to their families. We say your contribution will enable us to make great achievements on the forefront. The forces of the reserve on our armed forces on the land in the sea and in the skies are deployed with a number of missions. Their objective is to maintain the safety and security of the state of Israel and our future."
Responding to questions during the briefing, the official suggested that the ongoing hostilities illustrate what Israel considers a broader regional threat posed by Iran.
"What's taking place is a proof that Iran is not only a threat to Israel but the region and the whole world. A number of states came under attacks from Iran and many airports were closed. Uh all I say is that we are in close contact with a number of staff. The chief of staff is in close communication with his counterpart. There are certain issues that cannot be disclosed and they should remain confidential."
The spokesperson indicated that authorities were evaluating security conditions before easing restrictions affecting civilian life, including commercial activity and schooling.
"What is uh concerning us now is to provide security and protection. What we did yesterday will ease some restrictions with respect to the markets. However, when it comes to the security conditions, we will continue to take the necessary measures."
Addressing questions about whether Israeli operations extend beyond military targets, the official said the campaign seeks to weaken Iran’s governing structures, though details of specific objectives were not disclosed.
"In order to eliminate this existential threat, we will continue to undermine the foundation of the Iranian regime. We will continue to direct heavy blows to the regime. Again, I cannot disclose all our objectives and they should remain confidential."
Following the briefing, Al Jazeera returned to its correspondent, who highlighted the growing strain on Israeli civilians as the conflict continues. According to the report, residents in several areas have been repeatedly directed to remain close to shelters due to missile attacks.
Odeh noted that while public backing for the war remains visible in Israel, citizens are increasingly concerned about the duration of the fighting and its broader impact.
She explained that the physical and economic costs of the confrontation are already being felt, with damage to infrastructure and disruptions to business activity becoming more evident.
The conflict has also resulted in injuries among Israeli soldiers during clashes with Hezbollah fighters along the Lebanese border. Some of the reported injuries have been described as serious.
At the same time, Iran has continued to launch missiles towards Israeli territory. According to observations cited in the Al Jazeera report, the number of missiles fired in each round of attacks appears to be lower than earlier barrages, though the weapons being used may have greater destructive capacity.
Odeh added that the full extent of damage caused by these strikes remains difficult to verify because information about impact sites is tightly controlled by Israel’s military censorship system. Nevertheless, eyewitness footage circulating online suggests that some projectiles have landed near sensitive locations.
These reportedly include areas close to the Kirya complex in Tel Aviv, which houses Israel’s Ministry of Defence. Other attacks have also targeted regions in northern Israel where weapons manufacturing facilities and intelligence infrastructure are located.
While the scale of damage remains uncertain, the psychological toll of sustained alerts and sheltering has been significant for civilians.
According to the Al Jazeera report, many residents have spent extended periods close to shelters as sirens warn of incoming missiles, a situation that has persisted for several days.