Iran launched nearly 180 ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday night, triggering air raid sirens across the country. The Israeli military said that many of the missiles were intercepted, with assistance from the United States, though some hit central and southern parts of the nation.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that their missile defense systems successfully carried out multiple interceptions. A U.S. defense official confirmed that American forces also helped intercept some missiles to support Israel’s defense.
After roughly 45 minutes, the IDF announced that it was safe for citizens to exit shelters. IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that no further aerial threats were identified, although some missiles had landed, and damage assessments were ongoing. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties.
According to U.S. officials, nearly 200 missiles were fired from Iran, while the IDF confirmed that approximately 180 had been detected since the beginning of the attack. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the missile assault a failure and promised retaliation, stating, “Iran will pay for this.”
Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s resolve to defend itself and expressed gratitude to the United States for its assistance. Speaking on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, he vowed to continue efforts to safeguard the nation and return all abductees.
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, during a press briefing, confirmed that American naval forces were actively involved in defending Israel by launching interceptors to neutralize incoming missiles.
In Tel Aviv and other regions, waves of missiles were met with air raid sirens, followed by loud explosions as defense systems intercepted the threats. Israeli officials said that most of the missiles were stopped in cooperation with the U.S. Air Forces Central Command.
Some missiles from Iran landed in neighboring Jordan, causing minor injuries to three people. Jordanian officials, while not directly confirming their role in missile interception, reiterated the country’s priority of protecting its citizens and avoiding involvement in regional conflicts.
As tensions rise, Israeli forces launched airstrikes on Hamas operatives in Gaza, targeting two former school buildings that were reportedly being used as command centers. Iran’s top military officer, Mohammad Bagheri, said the missile strikes were aimed at Israeli military bases and intelligence headquarters, avoiding civilian infrastructure.
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