Iran has launched hundreds of missiles towards Israel, marking its second significant attack this year. Israeli military officials report that while many missiles were intercepted, some did strike Israeli territory, causing damage. The attack came just before a scheduled performance by Iranian military leaders.
The Israeli military stated that around 180 missiles were fired, making this a larger assault than the April attack, which involved approximately 140 missiles. Reports indicated that some missiles flew over the Tel Aviv area shortly before 19:45 local time. Most missiles were intercepted by Israel's aerial defense systems, though some military bases, as well as restaurants and schools, were reportedly impacted. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that 90% of their missiles hit targets, including three Israeli military bases.
Reason for the Attack
The IRGC stated that the missile attacks were retaliation for the recent killings of key Iranian figures, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and IRGC commander Abbas Nilforoshan. It also referenced the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which Israel is widely believed to have been involved in. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reportedly ordered the missile strike.
Air Defense Systems
Israel employs a sophisticated air defense system, primarily the Iron Dome, designed to intercept short-range rockets. For this attack, a combination of systems, including David’s Sling for medium and long-range threats and the Arrow interceptors for ballistic missiles, was utilized.
Reactions from Allies
US President Joe Biden reaffirmed support for Israel, labeling the attack as "defeated and ineffective." The Pentagon confirmed US Navy involvement, with destroyers firing interceptors at incoming Iranian missiles. Other allies, including the UK and France, condemned Iran's actions and expressed support for Israel's right to self-defense.
Future Developments
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran would face consequences for the attack, stating it was a "big mistake." The Israeli military has since conducted airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Beirut, signaling ongoing tensions and potential escalation. The IRGC threatened that any Israeli retaliation would elicit a "more crushing and ruinous" response from Tehran.
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