In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israel has conducted a strike on the headquarters of Iran’s state television, IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), located in Tehran.
The attack, confirmed by Iranian state media, marks a significant intensification of the ongoing conflict between the two nations, raising concerns about the impact on media freedom and the broader regional stability.
The strike occurred overnight, with reports of explosions and damage to the IRIB building in the capital. Iranian state television itself broadcast images of the aftermath, showing significant structural damage and debris.
“Israel has struck the headquarters of Iran’s state TV,” confirmed a statement from the Iranian government, which condemned the attack as a “blatant violation of international law and an assault on freedom of expression.”
This development follows a series of retaliatory actions between Israel and Iran, with each side accusing the other of aggressive military manoeuvres.
Just last week, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, prompting Iran to respond with missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities.
The latest strike on IRIB is seen as part of Israel’s broader strategy to disrupt Iranian operations, both military and informational.
The IRIB, a critical arm of Iran’s media landscape, plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and disseminating government narratives. The attack on its headquarters has sparked outrage among journalists and media watchdog organisations worldwide.
“This is a direct attack on the freedom of the press and a dangerous precedent,” stated Reporters Without Borders in a statement released earlier today.
The organisation called for an immediate investigation and urged all parties to protect media infrastructure during conflicts.
The extent of the damage to IRIB’s operations remains unclear, but the strike has undoubtedly disrupted its broadcasting capabilities.
Iranian authorities have vowed to restore services and continue their media operations, with state TV announcing plans to relocate to backup facilities. “The voice of the Iranian people will not be silenced,” declared a senior IRIB official during a press briefing.
The international community has reacted with concern, with several countries calling for de-escalation. The United Nations Secretary-General has urged both Israel and Iran to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to their differences.
“The targeting of media infrastructure is a grave concern and must be condemned,” the Secretary-General stated in a press release.
This incident adds to the growing list of targets hit in the recent exchanges between Israel and Iran, which have included military installations, nuclear sites, and now a key media outlet.
The strike on IRIB’s headquarters is particularly symbolic, given the role of state media in Iran’s political landscape, and it stresses the broadening scope of the conflict.
Israel has struck the headquarters of Iran’s state TV.
— Dr. Maalouf (@realMaalouf) June 16, 2025
Just wow.
pic.twitter.com/8I3c2gwTA0
