Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates: Sixth Day of War Sees Missile Exchanges and Strikes on Tehran

The conflict between Iran and Israel has entered its sixth day, marked by a novel wave of Iranian missile attacks and retaliatory Israeli strikes. The escalating tensions follow the initial US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28th, which targeted Iranian missile infrastructure, military sites and leadership, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei .

Iranian Missile Barrages Target Israel

On Thursday, March 5, 2026, Iran launched eight volleys of ballistic missiles at Israel, prompting widespread use of bomb shelters across the country . While no casualties were initially reported from these salvos, one missile struck an open area in a central town. Over the course of the war, ten people have been killed by Iranian missile strikes in Israel . According to a military source cited by the Iranian Fars news agency, Iran has launched over 500 ballistic and cruise missiles and more than 2,000 drones since the start of the war . The report claims that 40 percent of these attacks targeted Israel, while 60 percent were directed at American sites in the region, although Iranian attacks have similarly impacted civilian sites in Gulf nations .

Israeli Response and Strikes on Tehran

In response to the Iranian missile fire, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has conducted ongoing strikes on Iranian military and regime targets, including reportedly targeting sites underground . The IDF claims to have destroyed over 300 missile launchers in nonstop sorties over Iran .

Regional and International Reactions

The regional strikes by Iran have drawn condemnation from Middle Eastern and European governments, with some countries sending defensive forces to the region . Meanwhile, new strikes have hit Tehran, with pillars of flame rising above an oil storage facility . Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed “many surprises” for the next phase of the conflict .

Civilian Impact and Casualties

As of March 5, 2026, Iranian state-linked media Tasnim reported 1,230 deaths, while the US-based Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRANA) group reported 1,114 civilian deaths and 926 deaths under review . Iran has accused the US and Israel of attacking a girls’ school near an IRGC base, alleging over 160 deaths, claims the US is investigating and Israel denies involvement in .

Communication and Airspace Restrictions

Internet connectivity in Iran has been almost entirely restricted, and its airspace has been closed. No updated death toll has been released by Iran since March 5 .