In a dramatic escalation of the conflict between Iran and Israel, multiple waves of Iranian missile strikes were launched toward Israeli territory on Monday, triggering widespread alarms and emergency responses across the country. One of the most striking moments was captured on dashcam, showing a direct missile impact near the southern Israeli port city of Ashdod.
Footage circulating widely on social media and verified by CNN shows the moment of impact as a powerful explosion lights up the road, sending plumes of smoke into the air. The blast occurred just off a major highway outside Ashdod, a city located approximately 20 miles south of Tel Aviv and home to one of Israel’s key commercial ports.
The Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service, confirmed that it has deployed emergency crews to multiple reported impact zones across central and southern Israel, following what it described as “a coordinated barrage of missile strikes” originating from Iranian territory. Air raid sirens sounded in dozens of locations, prompting residents to seek shelter.
While the Israeli military has not released full casualty reports as of yet, local authorities confirmed damage to several residential buildings and vehicles. Initial reports also suggest at least one critical injury in Ashdod, with hospitals placed on high alert.
This latest wave of missile fire comes in the wake of U.S.-led airstrikes over the weekend targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, an operation that has significantly heightened regional tensions. Iranian state media claimed the strikes were a “first phase” in what they termed a “measured and legitimate response to aggression.”
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have responded by activating multiple layers of the country’s missile defense systems, including Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow, intercepting several incoming projectiles. However, defense sources acknowledged that “some missiles evaded interception” and reached ground targets.
“We are currently assessing the scope of the attack and responding where needed,” an IDF spokesperson said. “Our defense systems remain on high alert and our forces are prepared for continued escalation.”
In Washington, the White House National Security Council confirmed that President Donald Trump had been briefed on the developments and was in contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. U.S. officials have reiterated their support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
The city of Ashdod, which has frequently been targeted by missile fire during previous conflicts, is once again at the center of unfolding violence, with residents urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
As of this writing, emergency operations are ongoing, and international observers warn that the situation could rapidly spiral into full-scale war if cooler heads do not prevail.
Live footage and updates are being broadcast by major outlets, including CNN, as the world watches the unfolding crisis in real time.
@cnn Dashcam footage posted on social media shows the moment an Iranian airstrike made impact near the Israeli city of Ashdod. According to Israeli national emergency service MDA, crews have been dispatched to reported impact sites across the country following a barrage of missiles from Iran. #cnn#news#ashdod#iran♬ original sound – CNN