Iran executed a large-scale missile offensive against Israel on Tuesday, launching approximately 200 missiles, with dozens aimed at major cities including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. This attack, orchestrated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was framed as retaliation for the recent assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and other key figures.
Iranian officials characterized the missile barrage as a direct response to Israeli military actions in Lebanon, where Israel conducted ground operations targeting Hezbollah, a militant group supported by Tehran. The IRGC specified that Israeli military and security installations were the primary targets of the strike.
The Israeli military reported the launch of around 180 missiles and has pledged a swift and powerful response. "Iran’s actions tonight will have serious consequences," warned Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari. He confirmed that Israel's air defense systems, in coordination with U.S. forces, intercepted many incoming missiles.
Hagari indicated that Israeli forces were preparing for a significant counterstrike, emphasizing, "We are prepared to strike powerfully in the Middle East." While many missiles were intercepted, some did strike targets, with damage assessments currently underway. Tehran has threatened further attacks if Israel retaliates.
In a show of support for Israel, the U.S. confirmed its role in air defense. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder disclosed that U.S. Navy destroyers stationed in the eastern Mediterranean, including the USS Bulkeley and USS Cole, deployed interceptors to defend Israel. He highlighted that this attack was double the size of Iran's missile strike in April, indicating its severity.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held discussions with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, reaffirming America's commitment to Israel's defense amid rising threats from Iran and its allies.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian defended the missile attack, labeling it a necessary measure to protect Iran's interests and citizens. He warned that this incident was merely a demonstration of Iran's military capabilities. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei further cautioned Israel that future assaults would be "stronger and more painful."
The international community has condemned the missile offensive, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling it "unacceptable" and urging global condemnation. He commended Israel's defense systems for successfully neutralizing much of the missile threat.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for immediate action to stem the widening conflict, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. The ongoing violence has already resulted in significant casualties and displacement, particularly in Lebanon, where more than 1,000 people have died since mid-September.
Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati reported substantial displacement, with up to one million individuals affected, as authorities noted nearly 240,000 crossings into Syria since late September.
The situation remains tense, with both Iran and Israel preparing for further military actions as the conflict escalates, raising concerns of a broader regional confrontation.
