Iran-Israel War Highlights: IDF Declares Iran's Missile Attack A Major Escalation-What Are The Next Steps?
Iran launched more than 200 missiles on Israel, in response to the assassination of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders supported by Tehran. Iran fired rockets including ballistic missiles, prompting Israel to activate its Iron Dome defense system. Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned of "crushing" retaliation if Israel responded. The U.S. had previously cautioned about the impending Iranian attack, stressing severe consequences for Tehran.
The conflict has drawn in various regional players, with Yemen's Houthi rebels launching attacks in the Red Sea, potentially escalating the situation further. The U.S. has boosted its forces in the Middle East in response to the conflict, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Here Are LIVE Updates Of Iran's Attack On Israel:
The IDF declared that Iran’s recent missile attack constitutes a significant escalation and will have consequences. In a video statement, IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari reported that over 180 ballistic missiles were launched from Iran, with some hitting central and southern Israel, though most were intercepted. He emphasized that Israel's defense and offensive capabilities are fully prepared, asserting that the IDF will respond at its discretion based on directives from the government. Hagari noted that Iran and its proxies have been attacking Israel since October 7, aiming for its destruction, and assured that the IDF will continue to protect Israel and its citizens.
During an unrelated event at the White House, President Biden offered his first comments on the Iranian strike. He mentioned that discussions are currently underway regarding Israel's response to the attack. Biden noted that the consequences for Tehran are still uncertain and that he would be speaking with Netanyahu soon. He reiterated, “The attack appears to have been defeated and ineffective,” reflecting a statement made earlier by his National Security Adviser. He emphasized, “Make no mistake, the United States is fully, fully, fully supportive of Israel.”
Lebanon: The UN has expressed serious concern over the escalating hostilities in the region. UN Human Rights Chief has called on all parties to halt the current trajectory of destruction and ensure accountability.
Lebanon: The UN is gravely concerned by the escalating hostilities in the region.@UNHumanRights chief @volker_turk has urged all parties to end the current path of destruction and ensure accountability.https://t.co/kxFrntIVWC pic.twitter.com/0p1ffbZ4rC
— United Nations (@UN) October 1, 2024
The Israeli army has issued a new warning of a retaliatory strike following Iran's missile barrage. In a post on X, the military stated that it would determine the timing of its response, vowing to demonstrate its "precise and surprising attack capabilities" against Iran. Additionally, the army emphasized its "strong air defense system," asserting its effectiveness in preventing adversaries from accomplishing their objectives.
Iran’s mission to the United Nations has confirmed that the Iranian government did not provide any advance notice to the US prior to its missile attack on Israel. The statement emphasized that a serious warning was issued afterward. Similarly, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated during a briefing that the US had not received prior warning about the attack from Iran. However, US officials had indicated a few hours before the missile strike that they were aware Iran was preparing for an imminent attack.
The European Union has condemned the Iranian ballistic missile strike on Israel and called for an immediate ceasefire across the Middle East. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed concerns on X, stating that "the dangerous cycle of attacks and retaliation risks spiraling out of control," emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire in the region.
Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder stated that US forces are "well postured" in the Middle East to protect personnel and assist Israel's defense. He noted that Iran did not provide prior notice of its missile attack, which was "twice the scope" of a previous assault in April. While he declined to confirm reports of the use of Iran's Fattah hypersonic missile, Ryder mentioned that US naval destroyers fired a dozen interceptors during the attack, and there were no impacts on US personnel or infrastructure. He indicated that there would be "security and economic consequences" for Iranian escalation and emphasized the intent behind the large-scale missile launch.
In the Gaza Strip, Israeli strikes have resulted in multiple casualties, including 11 deaths at a shelter in the Nuseirat refugee camp, two fatalities in a house within the same camp, seven deaths in a tent west of Khan Younis, six fatalities from a car strike also west of Khan Younis, and three casualties in Musabbeh, north of Rafah.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that "every nation in the world" should condemn Iran’s attack on Israel. During a news conference, he emphasized that "Israel has the right to defend itself, as any nation does," and stressed that "there must be consequences" for the attack. While he did not specify what those consequences would be, he mentioned that the US would coordinate with Israeli counterparts on potential actions.
A senior Hezbollah official informed Al Jazeera that the Iranian missile attack was successful, claiming that several Israeli military bases were hit as intended. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official noted that Israel's missile defense systems had a "weak" interception rate and emphasized that there were casualties among Israeli troops. He also pointed out that the Israeli military frequently censors information regarding the damage inflicted on its facilities.
Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has addressed the recent attack on Israel, describing it as a "decisive response" to Israeli aggressions while emphasizing that Iran does not desire war. In a post on X, he stated, "This action was in defense of the interests and citizens of Iran," and warned, "Let Netanyahu know that Iran does not seek war, but it stands firmly against any threat... Do not enter into a conflict with Iran."
Omar Rahman, a fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, suggests that Iran’s missile attack on Israel was a predictable retaliatory move aimed at restoring its credibility following weeks of Israeli strikes on its allies. He warns that this attack could provoke a direct Israeli response, potentially escalating into a larger conflict that the region has sought to avoid for the past 11 months. Rahman notes that for Netanyahu, engaging in such a war could serve to reshape his political standing and redeem himself after the events of October 7. He concludes that, despite Iran's attempts to avoid conflict, it now appears to be "on the path to some kind of war with Israel."
"We will consult with Israeli officials regarding the next steps in response to Iran's actions and will remain vigilant against any further threats or attacks from Iran and its proxies. Protecting U.S. service members is a top priority," said US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
We are also aware of reports concerning a terrorist attack in Jaffa that resulted in multiple Israeli civilian casualties. Our condolences extend to the victims' families as well as to the family of the Palestinian civilian in Jericho," said US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
According to Jake Sullivan, "U.S. naval destroyers collaborated with Israeli Air Defense units to intercept and shoot down incoming missiles. President Biden and Vice President Harris monitored the situation from the White House Situation Room, with support from their national security team both in person and remotely."
Hamas has praised Iran's missile attack on Israel, calling it a "heroic" action. The group urged regional governments and people to unite against Israel. In a statement, Hamas declared, "This honourable Iranian response is a strong message to the Zionist enemy and its fascist government, which will help deter and curb their terrorism."
U.S. President Joe Biden has made a sudden change to his schedule, delaying the White House press briefing by at least 90 minutes as he and Vice President Kamala Harris remain in the situation room. They have been closely monitoring the Iranian missile attack, receiving regular updates from their national security team. Biden has directed the U.S. military to assist Israel by intercepting the missiles. The latest press briefing is now set for 19:00 GMT, coinciding with a Pentagon briefing, where more details about the situation are expected to be revealed.
Iran has canceled all flights until 10 a.m. (06:30 GMT) on Wednesday, according to the spokesperson for its Civil Aviation Organization. In Lebanon, Transport Minister Ali Hamie announced that flights are permitted to take off only toward the west, following coordination with Cypriot aviation authorities to ensure safety in Lebanese airspace. Previously, Lebanese airspace had been closed to air traffic for two hours. Additionally, Jordan has reopened its airspace after a brief closure.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has suggested an "imminent divine victory," referencing verses from the Quran in his remarks. In two posts on X, he stated that while "righteous people" might have to make sacrifices, they will ultimately prevail. Khamenei emphasized, “They are the victors in the field,” accompanied by a video displaying footage of Iranian missiles being launched.
نَصرٌ مِنَ الله و فَتحٌ قرِيب... pic.twitter.com/l53SfjEslF
— KHAMENEI.IR | فارسی 🇮🇷 (@Khamenei_fa) October 1, 2024
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced that its missile attack targeted three military bases in the Tel Aviv area. This assault was accompanied by a large-scale cyberattack and marked the first use of Iran's new Fatah hypersonic ballistic missiles, according to Iranian state media. Israel's military reported that approximately 180 missiles were fired into the country, with a significant number intercepted by its defense systems.
READ MORE
More From
-
Distant War, Direct Impact: Why Middle East Tensions Threaten India’s Economy -
Strait of Hormuz Won’t Return to Pre-War Levels, Iran Says US Must Lead Talks -
Iran vs US-Israel War Halted? Breakthrough or Breather Before a Bigger Conflict -
Iran Slams Donald Trump for ‘Fake’ Claims of US-Iran Talks, Says Move Meant to Manipulate Markets -
Iran Appoints Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr As SNSC Secretary Amid Regional Tensions -
Trump Delays Strikes on Iran, Says Tehran Is Eager to Strike a Deal -
Iran Threatens Power And Water Plants Across Gulf, Media Names UAE Nuclear Plant -
After Arad, Dimona Strikes, Netanyahu Calls On Global Leaders To Act Against Iran -
Trump’s Iran Move Creates Diplomatic Buzz; Israel Keeps Cards Close to Chest -
Pakistan Poised to Host Potential US–Iran Peace Talks -
Iran Uses Tom and Jerry Meme to Mock US in Strait of Hormuz Standoff -
“Thank You, India”: Iran Thanks Kashmir For Donations Of Gold, Cash And Livestock
Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Sign in with Google