Iran launched a barrage of 181 ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday night, setting off air raid sirens across the nation and forcing nearly 10 million Israelis into bomb shelters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that a significant number of the missiles were intercepted by the country’s advanced missile defence systems, including the Iron Dome and Arrow systems. However, a few projectiles managed to breach the defence shield, causing minor damage and light injuries.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned the attack, stating that Iran had made a “big mistake” and warned Tehran that it “will pay for it.”
This missile barrage is the second direct attack by Iran on Israel this year, following a similar offensive in April, which was quickly neutralised by Israeli and allied defences. Tuesday’s strikes, according to Iranian officials, were in retaliation for the recent killing of senior Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Israeli military operations.
Guy Nir, spokesperson for the Israeli embassy in India, speaking exclusively to NDTV, stated that an appropriate response will be given to Tehran. “If Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is planning to start a full-scale war with Israel, it will be a big mistake for them (Iran),” Mr Nir told NDTV. “Israel’s response will be strategic and precise, not a full-scale war. I don’t think either side wants that.”
In response to the attack, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that the missile strike marked a “significant escalation” and that there would be “severe consequences.” During a press briefing at the White House, Sullivan assured that the US would stand by Israel and support any retaliatory actions.
US President Joe Biden echoed this sentiment, expressing complete support for Israel and mentioning that military discussions were underway to decide on an appropriate response. Biden assured that the US military would assist in Israel’s defence and help intercept any further Iranian missile strikes. When asked about the extent of US involvement, Biden stated that discussions on a joint response were “active” and “ongoing.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, urging an immediate ceasefire and warning against the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. “This must stop. We urgently need a ceasefire,” Guterres stated.
As tensions continued to rise, Jordan, Iraq, and Israel closed their airspace, and flights were suspended at Tehran International Airport, Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, and other regional airports. Neighbouring countries like Iraq and Jordan are preparing for potential fallout, with Iran-backed Iraqi militias threatening to target US bases in the region if Washington intervenes in the conflict.
