Israel has vowed to retaliate after an extensive missile barrage from Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. In a preemptive strike anticipated by officials, approximately 200 rockets were launched towards Israel, prompting immediate defensive measures.
The attack, believed to be in response to Israel’s ongoing operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, has drawn international attention.
The missile assault triggered widespread alarms, with sirens blaring across Jerusalem at approximately 5:30 PM UK time, urging Israelis to seek shelter. Explosions rocked both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, though it was initially unclear if the blasts were from rockets hitting their targets or being intercepted by Israel’s advanced defense systems.
By 6:30 PM UK time, Israelis were granted clearance to exit bomb shelters. Despite the intense bombardment, Israeli officials reported no significant casualties as of the latest update.
Regional impact: explosions, airspace closures, and heavy gunfire
The assault had far-reaching effects, with witnesses reporting missiles streaking across central Jordan. The Jordanian military swiftly urged citizens to remain indoors, and the nation temporarily closed its airspace until nearly 8 PM UK time. Meanwhile, heavy gunfire erupted in Beirut, signaling escalating violence across the region.
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In Tel Aviv, eight civilians were killed in a separate incident when two gunmen opened fire in the mixed Arab-Jewish district of Jaffa. Israeli authorities labeled the shooting a terrorist attack.
Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport suspended all flights during the attack, resuming operations shortly after 7 PM UK time. The Israeli military maintained full readiness throughout the strikes, issuing immediate public warnings via mobile phones and national broadcasts.
Escalation and global reactions
In a strong warning, Israel declared that the attack would not go unanswered. IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari emphasized, “There will be repercussions. We will act at a time and place of our choosing.” Iran, however, signaled its own readiness to retaliate further. Tehran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any Israeli response would trigger a “more crushing and ruinous” reaction, as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on social media that Israel “must not engage in conflict with Iran.”
The United States, which had warned Israel of the imminent attack, supported its ally by deploying US Navy destroyers to intercept Iranian missiles. Washington reiterated its commitment to Israel’s defense, with Pentagon sources confirming the US was actively involved in missile interception efforts.
In a statement, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the Iranian assault, urging for immediate de-escalation and a diplomatic solution. The King of Jordan, Abdullah II, has also been in close communication with Israeli officials to discuss potential measures to restore calm in the region.
