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| Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets, as seen from Ashkelon [Amir Cohen/Reuters] |
Tehran, Iran - In a significant escalation of Middle East tensions, Iran has launched a missile attack against Israel, prompting air raid sirens across the country and sending Israelis rushing for shelter. The attack marks a dramatic intensification of the ongoing regional conflict.
Attack Details and Immediate Aftermath
Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari reported that there were no casualties from Tuesday's attack. He stated that the army no longer sees "any more threats in our airspace" and that people are now safe to leave their shelters. However, Israeli emergency services noted that at least two people sustained light injuries "from shrapnel in the Tel Aviv area."
The Israeli military had earlier warned of an expected widespread ballistic missile attack from Iran, advising the public to seek shelter in safe rooms.
Iran's Justification and Claims
Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was in retaliation for the recent killings of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The IRGC released a statement saying, "In response to the martyrdom of Ismail Haniyeh, Hassan Nasrallah and [IRGC Guards commander] Nilforoshan, we targeted the heart of the occupied territories."
Iranian state television reported that 80% of the missiles launched at Israel hit their targets. However, the Israeli military countered this claim, stating that a "large number" of missiles had been intercepted.
International Response and Regional Impact
The United States has pledged to provide "additional defensive support" to Israel following the attack. A US defense official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that US forces had assisted in defending against the Iranian-launched missiles.
The attack has had immediate regional consequences, with Jordan temporarily suspending air traffic.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the "broadening conflict in the Middle East," calling for an immediate ceasefire and stating, "This must stop. We absolutely need a ceasefire."
Escalating Tensions
This missile attack follows recent Israeli ground raids into Lebanon, marking the most significant escalation of regional warfare since the outbreak of fighting in Gaza a year ago.
In Beirut, Lebanon, reports indicate celebrations in response to Iran's attack, with gunfire and fireworks heard across the capital.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community watches closely, fearing further escalation in an already volatile region.
