Unprecedented Iranian Missile Attack on Israel

Unprecedented Iranian Missile Attack on Israel: Hundreds of Missiles Fired, Minimal Injuries Reported

18:04(UTC) Tuesday, October 1, 2024 - Israel – In a dramatic escalation, Iran launched a mass ballistic missile attack on Israel early Tuesday morning, firing over 200 missiles in an unprecedented strike that triggered sirens across the country. Many of the missiles were intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, with only a few reaching their targets. Reports indicate only two people sustained light injuries from shrapnel, while several others were treated for minor injuries and anxiety.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) quickly responded, alerting citizens to seek shelter as the missile barrage began. Sirens blared across major cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Within an hour, the IDF confirmed that the immediate threat had passed, and civilians were advised they could leave their bomb shelters, though they were urged to remain vigilant.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the IDF spokesperson, assured the public that while there were some impacts in central and southern Israel, the situation was under control, with no serious casualties reported. “During the defense, we carried out several interceptions. We are still assessing the full scope of the attack, but at this stage, we are unaware of significant damage or casualties,” he stated.

Despite the immediate cessation of hostilities, Hagari warned that Israel would retaliate for the Iranian attack. "This missile fire will have consequences. We are on heightened alert for both defensive and offensive operations and will respond at a time and place of our choosing."

Global Reaction and White House Response

As tensions mounted, U.S. President Joe Biden swiftly directed the U.S. military to provide assistance to Israel. The White House confirmed that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were closely monitoring the situation from the Situation Room, receiving constant updates from national security advisors. U.S. forces were ordered to intercept any further missiles targeting Israeli cities.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the missile strikes, warning that any Israeli retaliation would be met with a “more crushing and ruinous” response. The attack marks one of the most significant escalations in tensions between Israel and Iran in recent years.

Airspace Closures and International Impact

The missile attack led to significant disruptions in Israel’s air travel. The Airports Authority announced the closure of Ben Gurion International Airport, redirecting all incoming and outgoing flights to alternative destinations. Neighboring countries, including Jordan and Iraq, also temporarily shut their airspace as the missile fire continued.

Terror Attack in Jaffa Adds to the Chaos

In a separate incident, a terror shooting in Jaffa claimed the lives of eight civilians, with seven others wounded. The attackers, who were armed and carried out a shooting spree in a public area, were “neutralized” by Israeli security forces. The attack added to the already tense situation in Israel, though it remains unclear whether it was directly linked to the Iranian missile strikes.

As Israel begins to assess the damage and consider its response, the country remains on high alert for any further escalations. The unprecedented missile barrage highlights the ongoing volatility in the region and the potential for further confrontations.