In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Iran launched a massive missile attack on Israel, targeting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Videos circulating on social media showed a fiery spectacle as dozens of missiles streaked across the night sky, some successfully breaching Israel’s renowned Iron Dome defense system. Debris from intercepted missiles rained down on various locations across the country. Reports indicate that Iran fired approximately 200 missiles, aiming to retaliate for the recent killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. This incident further intensifies the long-standing conflict between Israel, Iran, and its regional allies.
As the missiles rained down, air raid sirens blared across Israeli cities, prompting residents to seek shelter. Israel swiftly activated its anti-missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome. The night sky above Israel was lit up by the trail of at least 180 missiles, according to various media reports. This attack marked a significant escalation in the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran. Thankfully, none of the missiles struck aircraft, and a plane passing through the region was able to continue its journey without incident.
Israel deployed its Iron Dome system to intercept the incoming missiles. While this system has proven highly effective in counteracting short-range rocket attacks from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, Iran’s use of higher-altitude ballistic missiles forced Israel to utilize its other defense systems, including David’s Sling and Arrow 2 and 3.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded swiftly and forcefully to the attack. In a statement during a security cabinet meeting, he declared, “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it.” He later took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to reiterate his message: “The regime in Iran does not understand our resolve to defend ourselves.”
The missile strikes were a direct response to recent Israeli military actions in Lebanon. These actions included an airstrike that resulted in the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and ground operations conducted across the border. Israel’s Iron Dome system, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with significant US support, became operational in 2011. It has been instrumental in safeguarding Israel from rocket attacks with ranges between 4 and 70 kilometers. While initially designed to counter short-range rockets, the system’s capabilities have been continually upgraded to tackle increasingly sophisticated threats.
