In an unprecedented move, Iran has launched strikes against Israeli territory, marking a significant escalation in tensions in the region.
The strikes occurred in the middle of yesterday (13) night, triggering air raid alerts in Israel and prompting residents to seek shelter. Explosions were heard as air defenses were activated, resulting in interceptions in several places across the country. At least nine countries were involved in the military escalation, with projectiles fired from Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, and intercepted by Israel, the US, the UK, France, and Jordan.
Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles towards Israel, including drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. The attack involved drones and missiles flying over multiple countries before reaching Israeli territory. The majority of the incoming barrage was intercepted either outside Israeli airspace or over the country itself, with approximately 99% interception rate reported. Despite interception efforts, some ballistic missiles managed to strike Israeli territory, causing damage, including a lightly hit air force base in the Negev desert.
Israeli officials have hinted at a significant response to the attack, signaling that the confrontation with Iran is far from over. Iran has warned of a larger response if Israel retaliates, with threats to target US bases as well. The UN Security Council is set to convene to address the crisis, while US President Joe Biden plans to coordinate a diplomatic response with G7 leaders.
The attack marks a dangerous escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel, with the potential for further retaliation and regional instability.
-BBC-
