Haifa on alert: Iran signals escalation amid renewed calls for evacuation

Iran has issued a renewed call for residents of Haifa to evacuate ahead of "punitive operation".

The Iranian TV channel specifically identified a neighbourhood in Haifa, urging Israeli civilians to leave the area “to save their lives," Caliber.Az reports.

Earlier, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, issued a stark warning to Israeli residents in a video message circulated by Iranian media, urging the immediate evacuation of key cities, particularly Tel Aviv and Haifa, “to save their lives.”

Speaking to foreign media, Mousavi described the recent Iranian military actions as a preliminary warning, emphasizing that a “punitive operation” by Iran “will be carried out soon.”

Since the onset of hostilities, Iranian missile strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 24 Israelis. However, Israel’s advanced air defence systems have successfully intercepted the majority of incoming projectiles, mitigating wider casualties and damage.

Despite mounting international pressure, including from major global powers, the prospect of a peace agreement between Israel and Iran remains distant. US President Donald Trump has delivered mixed signals amid the crisis—alternating between expressing hopes for a nuclear deal with Iran and demanding an unconditional surrender from Tehran.

The evolving rhetoric and escalating military engagements underscore the fragility of regional stability as the conflict shows no signs of imminent resolution.

By Vafa Guliyeva