Iran Launches Missile Attack on Israel; U.S. Aids Defense Effort
Sirens blared across Israel late Tuesday night as Iran launched a missile attack on the country. Israeli missile defense systems, along with U.S. forces, intercepted many of the incoming missiles, preventing widespread destruction. According to Israeli officials, approximately 180 missiles were fired from Iran, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out “a large number of interceptions.” U.S. military forces also assisted in intercepting some of the missiles to help defend Israel.
After roughly 45 minutes, the IDF declared it safe for civilians to leave shelters. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an IDF spokesman, confirmed that while some missiles landed, no significant casualties had been reported. “We are not aware of any casualties at this time,” he stated, although damage assessments were ongoing.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to the attack, calling it a failure and vowing that Iran “will pay for it.” He thanked the U.S. for its defense assistance and reaffirmed Israel’s determination to protect itself from any threats. Netanyahu’s remarks came on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Israel’s Jewish New Year, adding that “the axis of evil is retreating,” and Israel would continue to meet its goals, particularly regarding the return of abducted citizens.
In Tel Aviv, waves of missiles were met with sirens and loud explosions, causing civilians to rush to shelters. Many of the missiles were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome system. American forces, including Navy destroyers, also aided in intercepting the missiles, according to U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.
Sullivan confirmed that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris monitored the situation from the White House Situation Room. The U.S. government reported no immediate fatalities in Israel but was investigating reports of a Palestinian civilian death in Jericho, West Bank.
The Iranian mission to the United Nations released a statement acknowledging the missile attack, framing it as a response to alleged Israeli provocations. Iranian state television claimed victory, though Israeli and U.S. officials indicated that the majority of the missiles were intercepted, preventing major damage.
While Israel’s missile defense systems effectively neutralized much of the threat, two gunmen opened fire in Tel Aviv, killing six civilians in a separate attack. The suspects were killed by police.
The missile barrage comes amid rising tensions in the region. The U.S. had reportedly warned Israel about Iran’s preparations for a missile attack earlier in the day. Iran’s previous missile strike on Israel occurred in April 2024, following an Israeli airstrike that killed senior Iranian military officials in Syria.
Tensions have escalated in recent weeks as Israel has conducted operations against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. The U.S. has reinforced its military presence in the region, with over 40,000 troops deployed.
As the situation develops, both Israeli and U.S. officials are closely monitoring potential future attacks from Iranian proxies across the region, including Hezbollah and smaller militias in Iraq and Syria.
This missile attack is the latest episode in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, whose proxy forces have been actively engaged in the broader regional struggle for influence in the Middle East.
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