Iran attacks Israel, launching about 200 missiles in one fell swoop towards Tel Aviv, several media reports confirmed. Some have struck Israeli territory, Medialord learned.
The attack happened on Tuesday, October 1. This is the second attack by Iran this year. In April, Iran fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel.
Israeli military officials reported that the attacks seem to be over. They noted no immediate threat from Iran “for now.” However, the extent of the damage remains unclear. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of “consequences” following the attack.
The Scale of the Assault as Iran Attacks Israel
Israeli military has admitted that Iran launched around 180 missiles at Tel Aviv. This attack is slightly larger than April’s barrage, which involved about 110 ballistic missiles and 30 cruise missiles.
Footage from Israeli TV showed some missiles flying over Tel Aviv shortly before 19:45 local time, according to AFP. Israeli defense systems intercepted most missiles. Some military bases, as well as restaurants and schools, suffered damage, according to BBC reports.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that 90% of the missiles hit their targets. They also stated that hypersonic missiles were used for the first time. IRGC sources reported that three Israeli military bases received specific targeting.
The Palestinian civil defense authority reported a fatality in Jericho during the missile barrage. A man died from falling rocket debris, according to city governor Hussein Hamayel. Israeli officials however noted only minor injuries from the attacks.
Motivations Behind the Assault
The IRGC stated that the attacks served as retaliation for Israel’s actions. They include the killing of top commanders and leaders of Iran-backed militias. The IRGC mentioned the deaths of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and IRGC commander Abbas Nilforoshan.
Also, it referenced the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July. Although Israel has not officially admitted involvement, many believe it is responsible. A senior Iranian official indicated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei personally ordered the missile attack.
Defense mechanisms against Iran attacks
Israel has a sophisticated air defense system, prominently featuring the Iron Dome. This system intercepts short-range rockets, typically fired by Hamas and Hezbollah.
While the Iron Dome defended against some elements of Iran’s previous attack in April, other defense systems likely played a larger role on Tuesday.
Knowledgeable sources said David’s Sling, a joint U.S.-Israeli system, intercepts medium to long-range rockets, including ballistic and cruise missiles. For long-range threats, Israel employs Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 interceptors.
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