Iran fired approximately 200 missiles at Israel, with the majority targeting Tel Aviv.
Story Summary:
- Iran launched nearly 200 missiles targeting Tel Aviv, with explosions heard across the city.
- The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) intercepted most missiles, and the United States is working closely with Israel on their response.
- No deaths have been reported.
Iran attacks Israel: Here are the latest updates
The attack triggered sirens and led to explosions that shook the city.
The IDF confirmed that around 180 missiles were launched towards Israel, intercepting most of them using advanced defence systems.
According to Sky News, residents took cover as sirens blared across the country.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan addressed the situation from the White House, stating:
“At this time, we do not know of any deaths in Israel.”
He added that the attack appeared to have been “defeated and ineffective” but warned that it was a significant escalation by Iran.
Israel’s Foreign Affairs Ministry criticized statements from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called for a ceasefire, as Israeli leaders continued to assess their next moves.
Israel reacts to missile attacks – ‘This is not normal’
The IDF’s response to the Iranian missile attack was swift and precise.
An Israeli security official noted that the air force “operated in an effective and precise manner,” successfully intercepting most of the missiles, but acknowledged that several hits were identified and damage is still being assessed.
Residents of Tel Aviv experienced terrifying moments as the attack unfolded.
Giordana Levy, a mother of three, described the scene as “crazy” and “intense,” stating:
“We heard very loud explosions, the ground had been shaking quite a lot”.
This marks the second direct attack from Iran against Israel, with the previous assault occurring in April.
Unlike the previous instance, this time, Israeli leaders are expected to respond more decisively.
The Israeli air force has already conducted retaliatory strikes, targeting areas associated with Iranian forces. There are growing discussions within Israel about potentially striking Iranian nuclear facilities, a move that could escalate tensions in the region.
President Joe Biden has directed the U.S. military to assist Israel’s defence, reinforcing that the United States is closely monitoring the situation.
