Jerusalem: In a dramatic escalation, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that Iran launched over 200 ballistic and cruise missiles towards Israel on the night of Tuesday, 1 October 2024. The missiles targeted civilians in multiple areas, with the IDF reporting that approximately one million people were in danger.
According to the IDF’s statement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the attacks were primarily aimed at Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities in the Old City of Jerusalem. Israel has vowed to take every measure necessary to defend its citizens, with an IDF spokesperson warning that Iran would “face consequences for this assault.”
Iran claimed the strikes were in retaliation for the deaths of key figures, including Ismail Haniyah, Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah, and General Nilforoshan. Tehran framed the missile barrage as an act of revenge against what it described as Israeli aggression in occupied territories.
Tel Aviv Attack
Prior to the missile strikes, gunmen opened fire in Tel Aviv, injuring at least ten Israelis, four of whom are reported to be in serious condition. Local media reports suggest two attackers, armed with M-16 and AK-47 rifles, targeted civilians in a brazen assault in the heart of the city.
US Warnings
Interestingly, the missile barrage came after a US warning earlier in the day. American officials had informed news outlets, including the Associated Press, that they had intelligence indicating Iran was preparing for a ballistic missile attack on Israel. A senior White House official confirmed that the US is actively supporting Israel’s defence systems to prevent further damage from Iranian projectiles.
In light of the escalating tensions, Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, claimed responsibility for attacks on Tel Aviv. In a statement, they said the assault was retaliation for Israeli strikes in Lebanon, dedicating the operation to their leader, Hassan Nasrallah. They also asserted that they targeted the Said Dov airbase near Tel Aviv.
Israeli Response
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagary, an IDF spokesman, responded by assuring the public that Israel’s air defence systems were fully operational and capable of defending against further Iranian strikes. “We have faced similar threats before and will continue to handle them with resolve,” Hagary said.
The Israeli military remains on high alert, though the IDF has clarified that there is no immediate air threat from Iran at present. However, they are fully prepared for both defensive and offensive measures in collaboration with the United States.
International Reaction
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has called for Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanon in the wake of the conflict, though no immediate action has been taken by Israeli officials.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Israel issued an advisory to Indian nationals residing in the country, urging them to remain vigilant and adhere to local security protocols. The embassy has provided emergency contact numbers and recommended that citizens avoid unnecessary travel and stay close to safety shelters.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches with concern, with fears of further retaliation and a broader regional conflict.