Iran launched approximately 180 missiles toward Israel late Saturday, marking a significant escalation in Middle East tensions, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Israeli army radio reported that alarms sounded across the country, with explosions heard in Jerusalem and near the Jordan River. The IDF later confirmed that while several hits were identified, most missiles were intercepted by Israeli and U.S. forces.
“We’re currently assessing the damage from the hits,” an Israeli security official said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing situation. “The majority of missiles were intercepted by the Israeli Air Force in cooperation with the U.S. Air Forces Central Command.”
Iran’s UN mission described the attack as a “legal, rational, and legitimate response” to recent events, warning of a “crushing response” to any retaliation. The Iranian order to launch the missiles reportedly came directly from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to a senior Iranian official.
IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated, “Iran’s missile attack will have consequences,” noting hits in central and southern Israel.
The U.S. military confirmed its involvement in intercepting some incoming missiles to aid in Israel’s defense, though details remain limited.
Israel’s emergency services reported no serious injuries as of late Saturday, with only minor injuries from shrapnel and anxiety-related incidents recorded.
The attack follows recent assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, which Iran cited as justification for the strike.
