Israel braces for Iranian missile barrage amid rising tensions
3:12 PM EDT, October 1, 2024
Israel is preparing for an Iranian strike. Hundreds of air raid warnings have been issued across the country.
"All Israeli civilians are in bomb shelters, as missiles from Iran are being launched toward Israel," the Israel Defense Forces report. Alarm sirens have been activated nationwide.
The first images of missiles being launched by Iran have already appeared online. They are said to be heading toward Israel.
Earlier, the United States warned of a possible Iranian strike. According to information provided by "The New York Times," it was expected to occur within the next few hours. "The United States has signals that Iran is ready to launch ballistic missiles toward Israel," said a White House official in a statement quoted by American and European news agencies.
"The Israeli military remains in a state of highest readiness, both defensively and offensively. We have plans and capabilities," said Israeli army spokesperson Daniel Hagari, adding that Israel can handle the impending threat. Tehran has repeatedly declared that it will retaliate for Israeli attacks on Iranian interests and allies in the region, including Hezbollah.
According to Sky News, loud explosions can be heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Preliminary information indicates that about 100 missiles have been launched toward Israel.
Reuters reports that Iranian television announced a statement from the Revolutionary Guard would be released soon. The agency also notes that missiles heading toward Israel are being intercepted over Jordan.
The latest reports from Reuters indicate there are currently "dozens of missiles" in Jordanian airspace.
The Iranian news agency MEHR reports that "Iran's retaliatory attack has begun."
The Israel Defense Forces state that the target of the Iranian attack is "10 million Israelis."
"The shelling is still ongoing. Please remain in a protected area until further notice. The explosions you hear are from interceptions or impacts. The air defense system is continuously detecting and intercepting threats," reports the IDF.
