Iran launched its largest missile attack on Israel to date, firing over 200 missiles into the country in a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system, along with support from the U.S., intercepted many of the projectiles, but several missiles landed in southern and central Israel, causing damage.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to respond, warning that Iran would face serious consequences for its actions. “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it,” Netanyahu said. He promised that Israel would continue to defend itself and strike back against its enemies, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran.
This attack comes after Israel ramped up its military campaign in southern Lebanon to push Hezbollah forces away from the Israeli border. The conflict has already resulted in over 1,000 deaths and the displacement of over a million people in Lebanon. Iran claimed its missile barrage was in response to Israel’s recent assassinations of top Hezbollah and Iranian military leaders.
President Joe Biden reaffirmed the U.S.’s “full support” for Israel, stating that the U.S. military played a significant role in helping Israel intercept the missiles. Biden also indicated that his administration would work closely with Israel to determine the next steps in responding to Iran’s aggression.
With tensions continuing to rise, the U.N. Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to discuss the rapidly escalating situation in the Middle East.