Israel has reported that Iran has launched over 180 missiles towards the country, marking a significant escalation that has intensified fears of a potential all-out regional war. The situation has prompted millions of citizens to seek refuge in shelters as explosions illuminated the night skies over major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Tragically, a man was killed in Jericho, located in the occupied West Bank, due to falling missile debris, according to Palestinian officials. This incident underscores the immediate human cost of the conflict, which has rapidly escalated.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel stated that Iran had made a “big mistake” and emphasized that the country “will pay for it.” His remarks reflect the heightened tensions and the serious implications of Iran’s actions on regional stability.
Iranian state television reported that the country had fired 200 missiles at Israel, some of which were described as hypersonic weapons. The strikes were characterized as retaliation for the deaths of leaders from its allied groups, Hezbollah and Hamas, further complicating the already volatile situation.
In response to the missile barrage, Israel’s military quickly resumed air strikes targeting Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon’s capital. This counter-offensive highlights the ongoing cycle of violence and retaliation between the two sides.
US President Joe Biden commented that the Iranian missile attack appeared to have been “defeated and ineffective.” This assessment suggests that the defense measures in place may have mitigated the potential damage from the assault.
read also: “Israeli Military Claims Hezbollah Leader Hassan Nasrallah Killed in Overnight Beirut Strike”
The US Department of Defense also confirmed that its forces played a role in intercepting missiles, providing support to its ally in the Middle East. This involvement underscores the international dimensions of the conflict and the strategic alliances at play.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) indicated that the majority of the missiles were intercepted by Israeli defenses, aided by a coalition led by the United States. This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of international partnerships in addressing regional threats.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalating conflict in the Middle East, calling for an immediate ceasefire. His statement reflects growing concerns about the humanitarian impact of the ongoing violence on civilians in the region.
Support for Israel has also come from various allies, including Britain, France, Japan, and Australia. UK Defence Secretary John Healey issued a statement highlighting the role of armed forces in efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.
The missile attacks occurred shortly after Israeli troops initiated an invasion of southern Lebanon, targeting what the military described as “Hezbollah terror targets” in border villages. This operation aimed to eliminate threats posed to residents in northern Israel.
As the situation continues to evolve, the potential for further escalation remains high. The interplay between military actions, political statements, and international responses will be crucial in determining the future of the region.
