Israel claims that Iran has launched over 180 missiles toward the country in a significant assault, escalating concerns of a potential regional war. Millions sought refuge in shelters as explosions illuminated the skies over Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Palestinian officials reported that a man was killed by debris from a missile in Jericho, located in the occupied West Bank.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran made a “big mistake” and would face consequences. Iranian state media reported that Iran fired 200 missiles at Israel, including hypersonic weapons, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stating the attacks were in retaliation for the deaths of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders.
Shortly after the missile barrage on Tuesday evening, Israel’s military resumed airstrikes targeting what it identified as Hezbollah positions in southern Beirut. U.S. President Joe Biden described the Iranian missile attack as “defeated and ineffective,” with the Department of Defense confirming support for intercepting missiles aimed at Israel.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed most missiles were intercepted by Israel and a coalition led by the United States. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalating conflict in the Middle East, insisting on an urgent ceasefire.
Israel received support from allies such as Britain, France, Japan, and Australia, with the UK Defense Secretary noting their military’s role in preventing further escalation. The missile attack followed Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon, aimed at targeting Hezbollah “terror” sites that threatened northern Israel’s residents.
Air raid sirens sounded across Israel around 7:30 PM local time, warning of missiles launched from Iran. In Jerusalem, explosions erupted as missiles were intercepted. Videos circulated on social media showed the missiles in flight and clouds of smoke from interceptions.
Shortly after, the IDF announced that people could leave shelters, indicating no further threats from Iran. IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari reported a few hits in central and southern Israel but confirmed most missiles were intercepted. He labeled Iran’s attack a dangerous escalation with impending consequences, stating Israel’s military readiness.
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan commented that there appeared to be no damage to Israeli military assets, reiterating that the attack seemed ineffective. He condemned the assault as a significant escalation and warned of severe consequences for Iran, affirming U.S. cooperation with Israel in addressing the situation.
