Iranian authorities have announced that they have launched a large number of missiles and drones from their territory at targets in Israel. Israeli officials subsequently confirmed their claim. The attack is in retaliation for an Israeli strike on a consular building right next to the Iranian Embassy in Syria’s capital Damascus on April 1. The entire region has been on edge since then, as you can read more about in The War Zone‘s previous reporting here.
“The IRGC’s [Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’] Aerospace Division launched tens of missiles and drones against certain targets inside [Israel],” an IRGC statement read according to Iran’s state-run PressTV. The IRGC has dubbed their retaliation operation True Promise. The exact numbers of missiles and drones, and what types, are unknown. There are reports that as many as 100 drones may now be in flight.
IRGC statement confirms Iran launched a drone and missile attack on Israel, in response to the Israeli attack on Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus.https://t.co/hTsstAgCJC
— Wladimir van Wilgenburg (@vvanwilgenburg) April 13, 2024
The Iranian attack has a name.
IRAN'S REVOLUTIONARY GUARDS SAYS OPERATION 'TRUE PROMISE' IS PART OF PUNISHMENT FOR ISRAELI CRIMES' – IRANIAN STATE TV – Reuters News
— Phil Stewart (@phildstewart) April 13, 2024
Unconfirmed imagery is also beginning to emerge purportedly showing Iranian missiles and drones on their way toward Israel.
🚨#BREAKING: The Iranian drones over the skies of Najaf in Iraq pic.twitter.com/WxJrmHcREc
— World Source News 24/7 (@Worldsource24) April 13, 2024
Unknown drones over Diyala Governorate, northern Baghdad. #Iraq pic.twitter.com/j6TqE9I8k0
— Tammuz Intel (@Tammuz_Intel) April 13, 2024
Land-Attack Cruise Missiles have been spotted Flying over the Wasit Region of Eastern Iraq towards Israel. pic.twitter.com/A7rdzkBkv8
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
Additional Footage showing what is believed to be Iranian Land-Attack Cruise Missiles heading West over Eastern Iraq. pic.twitter.com/3gQYKOPxhn
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
Iranian cruise missile heading at low altitude towards Israel tonight, seen over eastern Iraq. pic.twitter.com/7JQ92l5MUI
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 13, 2024
“Iran has launched a direct attack from Iranian soil towards the state of Israel. We are closely monitoring Iranian killer drones that are en route sent by Iran. This is a severe and dangerous escalation,” Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a statement. “Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest level of readiness ahead of this large-scale attack from Iran. Together, with our partners, the Israel Defense Force is operating at full force to defend the state of Israel and the people of Israel.”
“Together with our partners, the IDF is operating at full force to defend the State of Israel—and the people of Israel. This is a mission that we are determined and ready to fulfill.”
IDF Spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari on the current attack from Iran: pic.twitter.com/rjNqLPFs9X
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 13, 2024
Iran launched UAVs from within its territory toward Israel a short while ago.
The IDF is on high alert and is constantly monitoring the operational situation. The IDF Aerial Defense Array is on high alert, along with IAF fighter jets and Israeli Navy vessels that are on a… pic.twitter.com/eEySouGVcN
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 13, 2024
Israel has convened an emergency meeting of its War Cabinet in response to Iran’s actions.
Israel's war cabinet is convening at the IDF HQ in Tel Aviv. pic.twitter.com/OqM95bFX5s
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 13, 2024
Israeli authorities say that GPS coverage in certain areas of the country will be disrupted as part of its response to Iran’s strikes. This is part of efforts to disrupt the guidance systems on the incoming weapons.
Another key question is whether the drones will be able to cope with massive Israeli GPS/GNSS jamming (assuming the Iranians use standard GNSS-guided versions and not one of the non-GNSS guidance modes they have been reportedly working on).
— Fabian Hinz (@fab_hinz) April 13, 2024
Exactly when any of these Iranian threats might reach Israel is unclear. The IDF has said that the drones would have to travel at least around 1,100 miles (1,800 kilometers), which would take them hours. This distance also indicates that they were launched from well within Iran given that the shortest distance between that country and Israel is only around 600 miles (965 kilometers). Staging various launches of disparate weapons to arrive around the same time at their targets in Israel could very well be part of Iran’s plan. This would help overwhelm Israel’s extensive air defense network.
Staggering the launches of standoff weaponry of disparate performance capabilities so that the weapons arrive around the same time at their targets is a key tactic to overwhelm an integrated air defense system. Not sure if this is the case here, but it would be likely.
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 13, 2024
A number of countries in the region, including Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt, as well as Iran and Israel, have closed their airspaces to normal air traffic in response to the Iranian operation.
A Shahed-variant launched from SW Iran would take 6+ hours to reach central Israel. pic.twitter.com/SJNrDKWBiE
— The Intel Crab (@IntelCrab) April 13, 2024
Egypt has now Closed its Airspace to Commercial Flights due to the ongoing Iranian Attack against Israel.
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
NEW – #Jordan & #Iran have both just closed their airspace tonight.
Significant anticipation that #Iran may take action against #Israel tonight.
— Charles Lister (@Charles_Lister) April 13, 2024
#UPDATE Lebanon has closed its airspace as Iran strikes Israel, the government says.
Earlier, Jordan also closed its airspace, citing the "dangerous" situation, according to state media there.
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) April 13, 2024
Mass diversion of flights over western Turkey over the past few minutes as Iraq closes one of the busiest air lanes in the Middle East. pic.twitter.com/AGxygdCHUB
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 13, 2024
“Iran has begun an airborne attack against Israel. President Biden is being regularly updated on the situation by his national security team and will meet with them this afternoon at the White House. His team is in constant communication with Israeli officials as well as other partners and allies,” Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council at the White House, said in a statement. “This attack is likely to unfold over a number of hours. President Biden has been clear: our support for Israel’s security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran.”
The full scale and scope of Iran’s strikes very much remain to be seen, as well as what responses might come from Israel and its partners, especially the United States in its aftermath. Regardless, this is an unprecedented situation that will have impacts throughout the region.
This is a rapidly developing situation and we will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
Update 6:40 PM EST:
Iranian state media is now reporting that ballistic missiles, in addition to cruise missiles and drones, are being employed in the strikes on Israel. It remains unclear what specific types of weapons Iran has employed in these strikes. Iranian quasi-state media outlets have shared stock footage showing what look to be variants or derivatives of the Fateh-110 ballistic missile and Shahed-136 kamikaze drones as part of their coverage of the strikes.
In an interview with IRNA, an informed source announced the firing of #Iran's first batch of ballistic missiles at targets deep in the occupied territories. pic.twitter.com/au45BuijEA
— IRNA News Agency (@IrnaEnglish) April 13, 2024
Iran shared video of the UAVs and missiles used in the attack it launched against Israel tonight. pic.twitter.com/O0mpQ2LE2e
— Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) April 13, 2024
There are unconfirmed reports that some Iranian missiles and/or drones are already being intercepted. There are similarly unconfirmed reports that Israel’s foreign partners may be involved in these defensive operations. U.S. authorities had publicly pledged this past week to support Israel in its defense against any incoming threats from Iran and/or its regional proxies.
First reports of Iranian drones being intercepted over Syrian and Jordanian air spaces
— Elad Simchayoff (@Elad_Si) April 13, 2024
NEW: More than 100 Iranian drones have already been intercepted outside Israeli territory, out of hundreds of UAVs in total, according to an IDF source – Israeli military radio pic.twitter.com/8omtgRkP2I
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Breaking: US forces have shot down some of the Iranian drones headed towards Israel, US official tells ABC News
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Reports from @AlArabiya_Brk that British fighters based in Cyprus have begun helping intercept missiles, drones fired from Iran at Israel — other sources claiming the United States is also engaging in interceptions over Iraq and Syria
— David Daoud (@DavidADaoud) April 13, 2024
Israeli officials reportedly believe areas in the Golan Heights and an air base in the Negev Desert are among the primary targets of Iran’s strikes, according to the New York Times. A separate report from ABC News says that Iran appears to only be targeting Israeli military sites.
New NYT report that (many of the) drones/cruise missiles from Iran/Iraq are targeting the Golan Heights and a Negev Desert air force base. pic.twitter.com/bqks3RaShn
— Aric Toler (@AricToler) April 13, 2024
An Israeli military source told ABC News that Iran has targeted military sites only
The first drones are expected to reach Israeli airspace in around 25 minutes. pic.twitter.com/2bD7cln9rJ
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Unconfirmed reports say that the U.S. government detected the initial launch of Iranian drones from its territory and passed details on to its Israeli counterparts, helping give them advance notice. How this was done is not clear, but the U.S. military has highly capable space-based early warning systems, especially the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) constellation. SBIRS is primarily designed to watch for ballistic missiles, but is reportedly sensitive enough to detect much smaller thermal signatures, as well.
"A few hours ago, the security systems of the USA detected the firing of Iranian UAVs towards Israel. The information also reached Israel and was kept secret", according to KANN journalist pic.twitter.com/UsTJbXRdeF
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Primer: https://t.co/1pGsAhAp7F
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 13, 2024
Iran’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations has also issued a statement citing Article 51 of that organization’s charter, which recognizes the inherent right to self-defense of any country, in justifying its strikes on Israel. “The matter can be deemed concluded. However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe,” the statement added.
Conducted on the strength of Article 51 of the UN Charter pertaining to legitimate defense, Iran’s military action was in response to the Zionist regime’s aggression against our diplomatic premises in Damascus. The matter can be deemed concluded. However, should the Israeli…
— Permanent Mission of I.R.Iran to UN, NY (@Iran_UN) April 13, 2024
However, Israeli authorities have already pledged a “clear and decisive” response to the Iranian strikes. There continue to be a variety of potential scenarios for how the situation may or may not escalate.
An Israeli government official says that the country's response to Iran's attack will be 'clear and decisive'.
— Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) April 13, 2024
Let's talk potential response: Massive range of possibilities. Much of it could depend on how Israel's integrated air defense system, arguably the most capable on earth, performs against this multi-layered barrage. If most everything is shot down and little damage is done, it…
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 13, 2024
Update 6:55 PM EST:
The IDF has now publicly issued a notice instructing citizens in the Northern Golan Heights, the Nevatim area in the Negev, Dimona (where the country’s main nuclear facility is situated), and the port city of Eilat to be prepared to enter bomb shelters. Air raid sirens are already reportedly beginning to sound across those areas.
https://t.co/BX7sANeODI
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 13, 2024
Red alerted areas continue to grow pic.twitter.com/9wiJPFPLMZ
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 13, 2024
Iranian media is reporting that Iranian strikes on Israel may come in multiple waves, with more still to come. Video footage has emerged claiming to show more recent launches from the Tehran area.
Iran's attack is designed in several stages and each stage will be more intense than the previous stage depending on the conditions, a source tells Iran's semi-official Fars news agency pic.twitter.com/X3lJ9Uo5yT
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
CCTV footage from Tehran a couple of minutes ago! pic.twitter.com/I0e3WTRXd7
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon have also now launched their own rocket attacks on areas in the Golan.
Hezbollah says it has attacked the air and missile defense headquarters in the Keila barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan with dozens of Katyusha rockets.
— Ali Hashem علي هاشم (@alihashem_tv) April 13, 2024
Report of Hezbollah getting in on the retaliation strike against Israel. https://t.co/jB00X0ZNsd
— TheIntelFrog (@TheIntelFrog) April 13, 2024
Update 7:00 PM EST:
Videos and pictures reportedly showing Israeli air defenses in action against incoming Iranian missiles and/or drones are now beginning to emerge. Some of the imagery is said to show intercepts occurring over or near Jerusalem.
Interceptions by the Iron Dome and other Elements of Israeli Air Defense Array seen over Eastern Israel near the Jordan Valley. pic.twitter.com/kKUOWGFJRS
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
BREAKING: Footage of Israeli air defence activity over Israel amid Iranian UAV and missile attack pic.twitter.com/mtKPb6RryI
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Footage showing the sky above Jerusalem.
Interceptions ongoing against Iranian ballistic missiles. pic.twitter.com/bh9h3HEkEm
— Global: Military-Info (@Global_Mil_Info) April 13, 2024
Jerusalem skies just a few minutes ago pic.twitter.com/NSRouWVMd1
— Gabriel Mitchell (@GabiAMitchell) April 13, 2024
Video showing interceptions over Jerusalem. pic.twitter.com/fvkK504mAH
— doge (@IntelDoge) April 13, 2024
BREAKING: Sirens are heard in Jerusalem as drones expected. @alexrossiSKY reports. https://t.co/EpM5yv40Jj
📺 Sky 501 pic.twitter.com/n34vXIymTM
— Sky News (@SkyNews) April 13, 2024
Update 7:20 PM EST:
There are now reports that some Iranian drones and/or missiles have impacted in Israel’s Negev Desert region. Israeli authorities are saying that, at least so far, there have been no casualties from Iran’s drone and missile strikes.
Multiple Impacts are being reported within the Negev Desert in Southern Israel.
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
*MDA Spokesperson*:
Update to the Red Alert sirens in the last few minutes across the country: No reports have been received of casualties apart from calls of stress symptoms and injuries occurred whilst running to the protected areas. Update to follow if necessary. pic.twitter.com/y9R5mtI2hm
— Magen David Adom (@Mdais) April 13, 2024
Additional imagery footage of intercepts in the skies of Israel continues to emerge.
WATCH: Israeli interceptions near Jerusalem amid Iranian attack pic.twitter.com/8rAunEpc93
— i24NEWS English (@i24NEWS_EN) April 13, 2024
Historic picture: Israeli missiles over Israel's parliament in Jerusalem intercepting incoming UAVs and missiles fired by Iran pic.twitter.com/KCyaSI2tnx
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Jordanian forces are now reportedly among those that have shot down Iranian drones heading toward Israel.
A piece of an intercepted rocket landed on Jordan pic.twitter.com/nf26eMiRHc
— Documenting Israel (@DocumentIsrael) April 13, 2024
Footage reportedly from Jordan showing the remains of an intercepted Iranian missile. pic.twitter.com/F1lIDP3fGy
— Aurora Intel (@AuroraIntel) April 13, 2024
This is from my window in amman Jordan pic.twitter.com/IHCDbEIyv4
— Leoncasino (@Leoncasinos) April 13, 2024
NEW: Jordanian jets have shot down dozens of Iranian drones flying across northern and central Jordan heading to Israel, two regional security sources tell Reuters.
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
Iran’s Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani has issued a statement saying that any country that allows the use of its airspace for any retaliation strikes on Iran would face a decisive response.
Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani early Sunday warned Tehran will respond decisively to any country that allows its airspace or territory be used for attacks on Iran.
FOLLOW OUR LIVE UPDATES HERE: pic.twitter.com/OxqZdxmAJS
— Rudaw English (@RudawEnglish) April 13, 2024
There are also now unconfirmed reports of possible attacks on bases that host U.S. forces in Iraq, including Al Asad Air Base, as well as in Erbil, the capital of the country’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region in the north. Iran has reportedly held the United States also responsible for the April 1 strike in Damascus.
Initial Reports of an Attack on U.S. Forces at Erbil International Airport in Northern Iraq as well as Al-Asad Airbase in Western Iraq.
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
That #Iran is holding the U.S. responsible alongside #Israel is entirely unsurprising — in fact, it's standard practice. Not surprising.
For years, whenever #Israel pushes #Iran's red lines (especially in #Syria), the U.S. has been the target of Iranian retaliatory action,. https://t.co/w27EWVbPjr
— Charles Lister (@Charles_Lister) April 12, 2024
Update 7:45 PM EST:
We now have what looks to be our first imagery of Iranian missiles impacting in Israel.
🔴 ISRAEL EN GUERRE: Impact sur un village bédouin dans le Sud du pays. Un enfant de 10 ans blessé. pic.twitter.com/m1UXseioEp
— Jonathan Serero (@sererojonathan) April 13, 2024
Clear impacts on Israel during Iranian attack, likely in Negev. pic.twitter.com/rDVXREy3HX
— Clash Report (@clashreport) April 13, 2024
Israeli authorities say they have intercepted 99% of the drones and missiles Iran has launched so far, according to a report from the country’s N12 news outlet. They have also pledged a major response to the strikes.
גורמים ישראלים בכירים: יירטנו 99% מהטילים ששוגרו, התגובה תהיה בממדים חסרי תקדים
— החדשות – N12 (@N12News) April 13, 2024
The IRGC has put out another statement warning the United States against supporting any Israeli retaliation.
NEW
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) has issued a second statement this evening:
“The terrorist government of America is warned that any support and participation in harming Iran's interests will result in a decisive and regretful response from the armed forces of… pic.twitter.com/NS7OezpOjO
— Yashar Ali 🐘 (@yashar) April 13, 2024
The governments of the United Kingdom and France have both issued statements condemning Iran’s actions against Israel and warning about further instability in the region.
Statement from UK prime minister Sunak: "I condemn in the strongest terms the Iranian regime's reckless attack against Israel" pic.twitter.com/29sbi4NyhN
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 13, 2024
La France réaffirme son attachement à la sécurité d’Israël et l’assure de sa solidarité.
2/2
— Stéphane Séjourné (@steph_sejourne) April 13, 2024
Update 8:00 PM EST:
There are unconfirmed reports that as many as seven Iranian ballistic missiles may have hit Nevatim Air Base in the Negev Desert.
Some Israeli Sources are reporting that Nevatim Airbase in the Negev Desert of Southern Israel has been Struck by at least 7 Medium-Range Ballistic Missiles launched by Iran. pic.twitter.com/OXAYS6I2sY
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
ABC News has reported that Iran has launched 70 more cruise and ballistic, citing an anonymous U.S. government official. This would bring the total number of reported Iranian missiles fired at Israel to approximately 150. U.S. officials have previously said that Iranian forces could ultimately launch between 400 and 500 missiles and drones as part of their retaliatory operation.
Source: https://t.co/6SPhqg0ltT
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 13, 2024
400-500 drones + missiles 🤯 pic.twitter.com/QaO6pmKRLe
— MAKS 23 🇺🇦👀 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) April 13, 2024
Update 8:30 PM EST:
The IDF has issued a new statement saying that Iranian ballistic missiles have caused minor damage to an Israeli military base in the Negev. However, spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said that most of the ballistic missiles targeting that base were intercepted outside of Israeli airspace by Arrow-series interceptors. He also said that Israeli combat jets have shot down dozens of incoming drones and cruise missiles.
IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says Iran launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel, causing slight damage to a military base.
He says most of the missiles were intercepted by the long-range Arrow air defense system. The missiles were mostly downed outside of Israeli…
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) April 14, 2024
Another impact of Iranian ballistics in Israel. pic.twitter.com/mJhFOTw4Ow
— Clash Report (@clashreport) April 13, 2024
A video has also now emerged that may show an exoatmospheric intercept of an Iranian ballistic missile heading toward Israel.
Is this a kill vehicle separating during a mid course arrow 3 engagement ? https://t.co/XQoZ0YCvPg
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 14, 2024
A 10-year-old girl was injured during the strikes in the Negev, but reportedly as a result an interception rather than from an Iranian muntion actually hitting a target.
*MDA Spokesperson*: Update to the event at the Bedouin community near Arad
A 10-year-old girl was injured (and not a boy)
— Magen David Adom (@Mdais) April 14, 2024
“In accordance with our ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, U.S. forces in the region continue to shoot down Iranian-launched drones targeting Israel,” a U.S. defense official also told The War Zone. “Our forces remain postured to provide additional defensive support and to protect U.S. forces operating in the region.”
Given the volume of incoming Iranian threats, Israel’s air and missile defense network will have to prioritize which ones to respond to, such as ones heading for major population centers or critical facilities. It is inevitable that some missiles and drones will get through, possibly even as a result of a deliberate decision to conserve resources to ensure adequate defenses around higher-priority targets.
Israeli integrated air defenses will prioritize incoming threats that appear to be headed to populated areas/critical targets over ones that are not. In saturation attacks this means letting weapons hit in order to allocate effectors to higher priority threats. It’s complicated…
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 14, 2024
U.S. President Joe Biden has concluded another meeting with his national security team on Iran’s strikes on Israel. There are reports he is now expected to speak directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about response options.
I just met with my national security team for an update on Iran’s attacks against Israel. Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad. pic.twitter.com/kbywnsvmAx
— President Biden (@POTUS) April 13, 2024
U.S. President Biden is holding another Meeting in the Situtaion Room with his National Security Team to discuss the Iranian Attack on Israel; afterwards he is expected receive a Phone Call from Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu to talk about Response Options against… pic.twitter.com/zuOm1Yk285
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 14, 2024
Israeli Minister of Defense Yaov Gallant has also spoken directly with his American counterpart, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, tonight.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke with the American Secretary of Defense, General Lloyd Austin. The Defense Minister informed the Defense Secretary about Israel's defense actions in the face of the Iranian attack.
Minister Gallant thanked Secretary Austin for the firm stand of… pic.twitter.com/XQUTWiQdBW
— Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) April 14, 2024
CNN has reported, citing unnamed U.S. officials, that American forces in the region do not appear, so far, to have been directly targeted by Iran or its proxies.
US forces have not been targeted in Iran’s attack on Israel or by Iranian proxies so far, according to two US officials to CNN. They noted no reports of any US troops being injured.
Officials caution they are still aware of ongoing launches and taking force protection measures.
— Diyar Kurda (@diyarkurda) April 14, 2024
Update 9:05 PM EST:
The IDF has now released video footage of combat jets during operations tonight in response to Iran’s strikes, as well as personnel in a command post.
לפני זמן קצר זוהו עשרות שיגורים של טילי קרקע-קרקע שעשו את דרכם מאיראן לשטח הארץ.
לוחמי ההגנה האווירית יירטו בהצלחה באמצעות מערכת "חץ" ויחד עם המדינות השותפות האסטרטגיות את מרבית השיגורים טרם חצו לשטח הארץ.
זוהו פגיעות בודדות, ביניהן בבסיס צבאי בדרום הארץ עם נזק קל לתשתית>> pic.twitter.com/R6GIPDCls0
— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) April 14, 2024
Additional video footage of Iran’s ballistic missile strikes in the Negev, as well as what may be exoatmospheric intercepts of some of those weapons, has emerged.
Appears to be the clearest footage yet of the 3 impacts at a distance from earlier this evening in the Negev region of Israel which targeted an IDF airbase. pic.twitter.com/RfAvApOe0Z
— Aurora Intel (@AuroraIntel) April 14, 2024
Saw several pic.twitter.com/t5Rq5Fumsa
— 🌻 Fertilizer Finder 🌻 (@ManiacMagic1) April 14, 2024
The IDF Home Front Command has reportedly lifted its call for residents in areas of northern and southern Israel to remain near bomb shelters.
🔴 IDF Home Front Command lifts need for residents in north and south of Israel to remain near bomb shelters
— i24NEWS English (@i24NEWS_EN) April 14, 2024
Israel’s War Cabinet is set to meet later on Sunday to discuss response options to Iran’s strikes, according to Axios‘ Barak Ravid.
הקבינט המדיני ביטחוני הסמיך את ראש הממשלה נתניהו, שר הביטחון גלנט והשר גנץ להחליט לגבי אופן התגובה למתקפה האיראנית. קבינט המלחמה יתכנס מחר לדיון בנושא, כך לפי שני בכירים ישראלים
— Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) April 14, 2024
Israeli authorities have also called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council over Iran’s actions. Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, has already called for the organization to condemn the strikes.
BREAKING: Israel calls for an emergency meeting of the UN security council over the Iranian attack pic.twitter.com/bbfukLK6v5
— Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) April 14, 2024
Watch Israel defending the Temple Mount and Al-Aqsa Mosque from Iranian missile and drones! For the murderous Ayatollah regime, murdering Israelis is more important than safeguarding Islamic holy sites. The UN must clearly and unambiguously condemn the Iranian attack on Israel… pic.twitter.com/ajeg7Fy2Ds
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) April 14, 2024
There are now indications that reports of possible attacks in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region tonight may have been Iranian drones and/or missiles bound for Israel being intercepted.
Several Iranian drones and missiles were spotted in the skies of the Kurdistan Region on early Sunday with some collapsing or being shot down, hours after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a massive attack into Israel. https://t.co/x1asYTErmo
— Rudaw English (@RudawEnglish) April 14, 2024
Update 9:35 PM EST:
There are reports that a number of Iranian drones are still in the air heading toward targets in Israel.
Reports that Iranian drones are still heading towards israel https://t.co/R2qyQDFGvr
— Faytuks News Δ (@Faytuks) April 14, 2024
Sources within the Israeli Air Force are reporting that at least 1 Wave of Iranian One-Way “Suicide” Drones are still Airborne over Iraq and Syria, with Israeli and Allied Aircraft attempting to Finish off the Stragglers.
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 14, 2024
The IDF is continuing to assess the situation.
IDF: The Chief of the General Staff, LTG Herzi Halevi, is currently conducting a situational assessment at the Israeli Air Force Operations Center in the Kirya with the Commanding Officer of the Israeli Air Force, the Commanding Officer of the Operations Directorate, and the… pic.twitter.com/JoW2JGOfJj
— Joe Truzman (@JoeTruzman) April 14, 2024
British authorities are bolstering their country’s military presence in the Middle East “in response to increased Iranian threats and the growing risk of escalation” in the region, according to a statement from the U.K. Ministry of Defense. “We have moved several additional Royal Air Force jets and air refuelling tankers to the region. … these UK jets will intercept any airborne attacks within range of our existing missions, as required.”
Several additional @RoyalAirForce jets and air refuelling tankers have deployed to the Middle East to bolster Operation Shader – the UK’s existing counter-Daesh operation in Iraq & Syria.
Read our statement on UK military activity in the Middle East: https://t.co/6lNJA4Q3u8
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) April 14, 2024
There continues to be a massive disruption in regional air traffic due to tonight’s events.
Multiple aircraft suffering fuel woes from the closure, looks like AFR257 is diverting to Cairo, AUA26 diverting to Atherns, KLM878 diverting to Vienna, SWR147 diverting to Vienna pic.twitter.com/52sfXItpSR
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 14, 2024
Update 9:55 PM EST:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now spoken directly with U.S. President Joe Biden about Iran’s missile and drone strikes in a call that reportedly lasted around 25 minutes.
Call ended. Lasted 25 minutes, per Israeli official https://t.co/UisoJkliDb
— Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) April 14, 2024
All eyes are turning to how Israel may respond. Though Iran’s strikes so far look to have been largely unsuccessful in terms of damage and casualties caused, they are a clear demonstration of the country’s ability and willingness to take action against Israel directly.
The Iran’s display/demonstration of potential delivery systems, and willingness to employ them on Israel directly, even if largely unsuccessful, has also given him better backing to go after their nuclear program.
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 14, 2024
“As far as I know at the moment, the damage is very limited, thanks to the success of the defense systems we have and the U.S. interceptions above Iraq,” Eyal Hulata, a senior international fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the first foreign visiting fellow at FDD headquarters, told The War Zone tonight. “I don’t know of other countries involved in the interceptions, but it might be that friendly Arab countries participated with the US in their efforts.”
“If it wasn’t for that, there would probably be an enormous amount of civilian damage,” Hulat continued. “I must admit that I am surprised, the volume they fired was huge, and the proximity to our major cities, especially Jerusalem, was dangerous. One must ask what they were thinking, to what extent they thought we were weak and that the US isn’t really on our side – they are wrong in both and this must be proven publicly and clearly.
“As for Israel’s response – too early to say,” Hulat said. “I would argue that Israel must respond, but more importantly the international community must respond – Iran must be isolated, the ballistic missiles sanctions that were removed last year must be restored and a strategic coalition must be created in the Gulf to deter them from ever doing this again to us or to any other U.S. ally.”
UPDATE: 11:15 PM EST—
Official statement from President Biden:
Earlier today, Iran—and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria and Iraq—launched an unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel. I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms.
At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week. Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our servicemembers, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles.
I’ve just spoken with Prime Minister Netanyahu to reaffirm America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel. I told him that Israel demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks – sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel.
Tomorrow, I will convene my fellow G7 leaders to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s brazen attack. My team will engage with their counterparts across the region. And we will stay in close touch with Israel’s leaders. And while we have not seen attacks on our forces or facilities today, we will remain vigilant to all threats and will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect our people.
Hezbollah says it launched a rocket barrage into the Golan Heights. This is not anything new, but an indication of additional proxy actions following the direct attack on Israeli territory by Iran.
#UPDATE Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has regularly traded cross-border fire with Israel since the start of the ongoing war in Gaza, said in a statement that it had launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at three Israeli military positions in the Golan
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) April 14, 2024
The house is moving to potentially bring forward legislation to support Israel.
The House of Representatives will change its schedule to consider legislation to support Israel in light of Iran’s attack and to hold Tehran accountable, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) said. https://t.co/V1QuWznpPE
— The Hill (@thehill) April 14, 2024
UPDATE: 12:08 PM EST—
U.S. Navy warships were reportedly involved in the intercepts tonight. Destroyers were moved into position off Israel this week. This could have been the debut of the SM-3 midcourse intercept capability. This was precisely what they were designed to do. They could have augmented Israel’s Arrow system to help tackle the surge threat, if those threats were inside the engagement envelope (they should have been) and deconflicted with Israel’s integrated air defense system. Other U.S. ABM capabilities in the region could have been responsible too, but if ships in that position were involved in the defense of Israel, it may have included SM-3.
CNN reports 70 drones and three ballistic missiles intercepted by U.S. forces in the region.
US forces intercepted more than 70 Iranian drones and at least 3 ballistic missiles, US officials tell me and @halbritz.
The missiles were intercepted by US destroyers in the eastern Med Sea.
A number of the drones were intercepted by US fighter jets operating in the region.
— Oren Liebermann (@OrenCNN) April 14, 2024
Here is the statement on today’s events from Secretary of Defense Austin:
At the direction of President Biden, U.S. forces in the Middle East on April 13 intercepted dozens of missiles and UAVs en route to Israel, launched from Iran, Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Our forces remain postured to protect U.S. troops and partners in the region, provide further support for Israel’s defense, and enhance regional stability.
We condemn these reckless and unprecedented attacks by Iran and its proxies, and we call on Iran to immediately halt any further attacks, including from its proxy forces, and to deescalate tensions. We do not seek conflict with Iran, but we will not hesitate to act to protect our forces and support the defense of Israel.
I am grateful for the professionalism and the skill of the brave U.S. troops who took part in today’s actions and who continue to stand guard to prevent further conflict or escalation. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and to consult with our allies and partners.
Reports are emerging that Biden told Netanyahu that U.S. would not back a response. If this is true, this is major pressure now on Israel to deescalate and call this a win. This is what we posited was a possible outcome earlier in the day prior to the strikes, but Israel will Israel actually act in line with this is another question. The IDF would need the U.S. for a major campaign against Iran’s nuclear program that aims to destroy not just degrade it.
New: President Biden told Benjamin Netanyahu in their call tonight that the PM should consider tonight a win, given the US’s assessment that Iran’s attacks had been largely unsuccessful, a senior administration official says.
— MJ Lee (@mj_lee) April 14, 2024
Let's talk potential response: Massive range of possibilities. Much of it could depend on how Israel's integrated air defense system, arguably the most capable on earth, performs against this multi-layered barrage. If most everything is shot down and little damage is done, it…
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 13, 2024
- 99% of threats were intercepted/did not reach Israeli territory. Combined figure of IDF, U.S., and allies’ work.
- 30 cruise missiles. Zero made it to Israeli territory. 25 intercepted by IAF fighters outside of Israeli airspace.
- 120 ballistic missiles, just a ‘few’ struck Israel, with minimal infrastructure damage to Navatim Air Base in the Negev. Base is functioning as normal.
- 130 drones were launched at Israel, none made it.
- Other launches from Iraq and Yemen, but none hit Israel.
- Israel claiming 99% effective collective air defense. An incredible number even if it is anywhere in the ballpark of reality.
- No damage from Hezbollah barrage. Counterstrikes via the IAF hit positions in Lebanon.
'This event is not over yet, we are prepared for any further developments and scenarios'
IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari issues a statement after Iran fired drones and missiles at Israel
Latest updates: https://t.co/PAiZ4D1jU3
📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 pic.twitter.com/6mlR8gzida
— Sky News (@SkyNews) April 14, 2024
מטוסי קרב תקפו לפני זמן קצר במחנה השייך לכוח רדואן, מספר מבנים במרחב הכפר ג׳בע שבדרום לבנון.
מוקדם יותר הלילה מטוסי קרב תקפו מבנים צבאיים של ארגון הטרור חיזבאללה במרחבים אל-חיאם וכפר כילא. pic.twitter.com/xdT5VPXIcb
— Israeli Air Force (@IAFsite) April 14, 2024
If the IDF's 99% of 300 missiles/drones intercepted/failed to hit Israel number is anywhere in the vicinity of the final tally it is one of the greatest military technological accomplishments of an era. This is total, combined Israel+U.S.+other allies figure.
— Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) April 14, 2024
Israel has posted a pictures of an F-15I Ra’am loaded with a common counter air load out for the type, with a mix of Python, Sidewinder and Sparrow air-to-air missiles. F-15s are an ideal fighter for setting up persistent forward screens against drones and cruise missile. I have been told the AIM-7s remain very useful against small targets at close range due to their SARH capability. You can read more about AIM-7s continued IAF service here.
![Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes Have Begun (Updated)](https://dalamanexpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Irans-Retaliatory-Strikes-Have-Begun-Updated.jpg)
![Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes Have Begun (Updated)](https://dalamanexpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1713167089_540_Irans-Retaliatory-Strikes-Have-Begun-Updated.jpg)
![Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes Have Begun (Updated)](https://dalamanexpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1713167089_703_Irans-Retaliatory-Strikes-Have-Begun-Updated.jpg)
Israel is reopening its airspace:
The Israel Airports Authority announced on Sunday morning that as of 7:30 a.m., Israeli airspace had reopened.https://t.co/7K6gYOb8Gt
— The Jerusalem Post (@Jerusalem_Post) April 14, 2024
We have ended our updates to this story. You can find our continuing coverage of Iran’s missile and drone strikes on Israel and their aftermath here.
Contact the author: [email protected] and [email protected]
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