Iran Missile Attack On Israel: Benjamin Netanyahu Says Iran Made Big Mistake; Will Have To Pay

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Iran's missile assault on Israel was unsuccessful and promised retaliation. During a security meeting in Tel Aviv on Tuesday night, he stated, "Iran made a big mistake tonight - and it will pay for it." He emphasised that Iran does not comprehend Israel's resolve to defend itself and retaliate against its adversaries.

Earlier that day, Iran launched ballistic missiles at Israel, responding to Israel's actions against Tehran's Hezbollah allies in Lebanon. This prompted strong responses from both Israel and the United States. According to Israel, over 180 missiles were fired from Iran, activating Israeli air defences to intercept them. The Pentagon reported that US Navy warships launched about a dozen interceptors against Iranian missiles targeting Israel.

Missile Attack Details

The Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran claimed the attack was in response to recent Israeli killings of militant leaders and aggression in Lebanon and Gaza. They used hypersonic Fattah missiles for the first time, with 90% hitting their targets in Israel, according to the Revolutionary Guards. No injuries were reported in Israel; however, one man was killed in the occupied West Bank, as per local authorities.

Israel's military identified 180 missiles launched from Iran shortly after 7:30 p.m., causing sirens to sound across the nation. Israelis were instructed to remain in protected areas. An Israeli security official mentioned that many missiles were intercepted with US cooperation, though some directly hit buildings and caused fires.

Reasons Behind the Attack

Iran stated that the missile launch was a reaction to the deaths of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Revolutionary Guard Gen. Abbas Nilforushan, both killed in an Israeli airstrike last week in Beirut. Additionally, they referenced Ismail Haniyeh, a top Hamas leader assassinated in Tehran during a suspected Israeli attack in July. Iran warned this assault was merely a "first wave," without further details.

US and British officials later reported approximately 200 missiles had been launched by Iran. The situation has led to heightened tensions between these nations as they brace for potential further escalations.

This incident marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, with both sides preparing for possible future confrontations. The international community is closely monitoring developments as they unfold.