Israel has threatened a 'full-force' military response after Iran fired a barrage of missiles at Israeli territory late on Saturday, escalating tensions between the two arch-enemies and raising fears of a broader regional war.
Missile Attack Details
Iran launched dozens of missiles toward central and southern Israel, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The IDF said its air defense systems intercepted the majority of the incoming projectiles, with only minor damage reported and no immediate casualties. Sirens sounded in multiple cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, sending residents into bomb shelters.
The attack marks the first direct Iranian missile strike on Israel from its own soil, rather than via proxy forces. Iranian state media confirmed the launch, describing it as a response to an alleged Israeli airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus earlier this month, which killed several Iranian military advisers.
Israel's Response
In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, 'Iran has made a grave mistake. We will respond with full force at a time and place of our choosing.' The Israeli security cabinet convened an emergency session to discuss retaliatory options, which could include airstrikes on Iranian nuclear or military sites.
IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated, 'We are prepared for any scenario. Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest level of readiness.'
International Reaction
The United States condemned the Iranian attack, with President Joe Biden reaffirming Washington's 'ironclad commitment' to Israel's security. The US military moved additional assets to the region, including naval vessels and fighter aircraft, to assist in Israel's defense.
Britain, France, and Germany also denounced the escalation, urging restraint on both sides. The United Nations Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting to address the crisis.
Russia and China called for de-escalation and dialogue, warning against any actions that could destabilize the Middle East further.
Regional Impact
Neighboring countries, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, closed their airspace as a precaution. Lebanon's Hezbollah, an Iranian ally, announced it was on high alert but did not immediately join the hostilities. The attack has disrupted international flights and sent oil prices soaring.
Analysts say this direct confrontation could trigger a full-scale war, drawing in regional proxies and global powers. The situation remains fluid, with both sides vowing to continue operations.
