The Israel-Iran conflict enters its fifth day on June 18, 2025, with both nations trading missile and drone attacks, causing widespread panic and disruption. Civilians in Tel Aviv, Tehran, and beyond are urged to seek shelter as air raid sirens blare and explosions light up the night sky. This article brings you live updates to help you navigate the crisis, stay safe, and understand the global impact.
Live Updates: What’s Happening Now
- 1:07 AM ET: The first of several special flights carrying Israelis stranded abroad landed at Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, following the closure of Israel’s airspace to civilian flights on June 13, 2025. Approximately 150,000 travelers remain stranded, with repatriation expected to take weeks.
- 12:31 AM ET: Israel conducted a large-scale attack wave in Tehran using over 50 warplanes, targeting weapons-production facilities and a centrifuge plant allegedly used for uranium enrichment. About 20 targets were struck, though claims could not be independently verified.
- 12:30 AM ET: Traffic jams choke Tehran’s Karaj-Chalus road as civilians evacuate amid Israeli airstrikes. Gas stations report shortages and the Grand Bazaar remains closed. If you’re in Tehran, head to safer areas outside the city using verified routes.
- 12:15 AM ET: The Israeli military says it killed Ali Shadmani, Iran’s wartime chief of staff, in a Tuesday strike, further weakening Tehran’s leadership. Iran vows retaliation, so stay vigilant in affected areas.
- 12:00 AM ET: President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, claiming “complete control of the skies over Iran” and calling Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei an “easy target.” He met with his national security team at 11:00 PM ET to discuss possible U.S. strikes. Monitor U.S. policy shifts that could escalate the conflict.