In a significant escalation, Iran launched a large-scale missile attack on Israel, targeting key military and security sites late Tuesday night.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the launch of multiple ballistic missiles in retaliation for the deaths of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and IRGC commander Major General Seyyed Abbas Nilforoushan, allegedly killed by Israeli forces.
Iranian state media reported that the missile strikes targeted critical military bases within Israel.
The IRGC vowed further action if Israel retaliated, indicating the potential for a prolonged conflict.
This assault is one of the most serious since tensions between Iran and Israel began escalating in recent years.
Israeli media outlets reported that the assault involved the firing of around 180 ballistic missiles.
IDF Intercepts Missile Attack, Reports Of Limited Damage
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) activated its air defence systems, successfully intercepting many of the incoming missiles.
There were reports of isolated impacts in central and southern Israel, causing some damage but no immediate information on casualties.
A spokesperson for the IDF, Daniel Hagari, confirmed the effectiveness of both Israeli and US defence systems, which cooperated closely to thwart the attack.
He emphasised that the Israeli Air Force would continue its military operations, stating, “Our forces remain at full operational capacity, and we are prepared to strike back forcefully when and where it is most appropriate.”
The US also played a key role in defending Israel, assisting with missile detection and interception, according to reports from The Times of Israel.
The collaboration highlights the strategic partnership between the two nations amid increasing regional instability.
Hagari condemned Iran’s actions, calling it a deliberate attempt to provoke further unrest in the Middle East.
He further added, “Iran carried out a serious act tonight and is pushing the Middle East to an escalation. We will act at the place and time of our choosing, in accordance with the guidance of the political echelon.”
As both sides brace for the next phase of confrontation, the attack underscores the fragility of peace in the region, with global powers closely watching the developments.
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