Tensions have heightened in the Middle East as Iran launched almost 200 missiles at Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for the deaths of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last week. “In response to the martyrdom of Ismail Haniyeh, Hassan Nasrallah, and Nilforoshan, we targeted the heart of the occupied territories (Israel),” stated the Guards in a report by the Fars news agency. Israel’s military spokesperson indicated that Iran’s missile strike was significant and would have repercussions, though he did not provide details on how or when Israel would retaliate. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari mentioned that he was not aware of any casualties resulting from the missile attack. He mentioned that there were some impacts in the central and southern parts of the country. Regarding Iran’s attack, Israel’s response was, “We are on high alert both defensively and offensively,” Hagari stated in a TV report. “We will protect the people of the State of Israel.” The outcome of this assault will be significant. We have a strategy, and we will act at the location and time of our choosing. Previously, the military warned the public that a potential ballistic missile strike from Iran would likely be widespread and advised them to take shelter in safe rooms. Iran promised retaliation following the assassination of its Hezbollah allies’ leadership in Lebanon. This led to missile firings after Israeli troops conducted ground raids in Lebanon, marking the most significant escalation of regional warfare since the conflict in Gaza began a year ago. President Joe Biden has directed the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense and intercept missiles targeting the country. The U.S. called on all nations to condemn Iran’s attack on Israel after they launched a barrage of ballistic missiles. The White House stated that Iran’s assault was unsuccessful and warned of severe consequences. The U.S. National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, praised efforts to thwart some attacks and indicated that further consequences await Iran. This comes after Israel declared limited ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, causing air raid alerts and evacuations in southern Lebanese villages. There was no immediate information regarding casualties as the fighting escalated and fears of an extended regional conflict increased. A high-ranking official from the White House cautioned that there would be “severe consequences” if Iran were to fire a ballistic missile at Israel. U.S. vessels and aircraft are stationed in the area to help Israel if it comes under attack from Iran.
