BREAKING: Israel strikes Iran's state broadcaster during live transmission

BREAKING: Israel strikes Iran's state broadcaster during live transmission
VIDEO: Iran state television IRIB news channel 5 hit by Israeli missile. / bne IntelliNews
By bnm Tehran bureau June 16, 2025

Israeli forces targeted Iran's state broadcasting headquarters on June 16, with explosions occurring during a live television transmission that forced presenters to evacuate.

The attack struck the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting building, destroying the news network's studio whilst programmes were being aired, according to Iranian reports.

News presenter Sahar Emami continued broadcasting immediately after the strike, stating that national media transmission would continue with full strength despite the attack.

"What we witnessed moments ago in the news building is a clear and obvious example of the fight against freedom of expression," Emami said during the broadcast.

IRIB's public relations department advised viewers to follow programmes through Telewebion if they experienced signal disruptions from provincial or national networks.

Several employees were reportedly killed in the attack on the broadcasting facility, though casualty numbers could not be independently verified.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had previously warned that Iran's state television and radio, which he described as the "propaganda and incitement megaphone," were targets for elimination.

The strike represents a direct attack on Iran's primary state media infrastructure and its ability to communicate with the domestic population.

Iran's state broadcaster serves as the government's main communication channel with citizens and the international community.

The attack occurred as tensions between the two countries reached new heights following reciprocal military strikes over recent days.

Broadcasting continued from alternative facilities as Iranian authorities worked to restore full transmission capabilities across the country.

The targeting of media infrastructure marks an escalation in the scope of military operations between Iran and Israel.

Iranian officials described the attack as an assault on press freedom and civilian media facilities.

 

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