In a major escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel in an unprecedented attack late Saturday. The Israeli army announced that 99 percent of the launches had been intercepted, with 170 drones and 30 cruise missiles shot down before reaching Israel. However, some of the 110 ballistic missiles did manage to get through, injuring 12 people.
The attack came after Iran had threatened to retaliate against Israel for a deadly air strike on its consulate building in Damascus on April 1. Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed the attack and stated that they were operating at full force to defend the state.
World leaders, including the United States, Germany, and France, have condemned the attack and called for restraint to prevent further escalation. President Joe Biden reaffirmed the US’s “ironclad” support for Israel and announced plans to convene the G7 leaders for a video conference to coordinate a response.
As tensions continue to rise, the UN Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the situation. Meanwhile, countries like Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon have closed their airspace as a precautionary measure.
The situation remains volatile as Israel prepares to defend itself against further attacks, and the international community works to prevent a full-scale conflict in the region.