Unprecedented Missile Barrage: Iran Strikes Israel Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran Launches Ballistic Missiles at Israel

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced that it has fired dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel in a dramatic escalation of hostilities. This attack is reportedly in retaliation for recent events in Gaza and Lebanon, including the deaths of key military figures.

Donald Trump is facing Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in the race for the US presidency [File: Brian Snyder/Reuters]

Trump Blames Biden Administration

Former US President Donald Trump criticized the Biden administration for the escalating conflict in the Middle East, claiming that Iran was kept in check during his presidency. He asserted that the recent attacks would not have occurred under his leadership.

Israel's Defense Systems Under Pressure

According to Al Jazeera’s defense editor Alex Gatapoulos, Israel's air defenses are among the most sophisticated globally. The Iron Dome, Barak 8, and Arrow 3 systems are designed for different ranges of attacks, but the sheer volume of missiles may pose significant challenges for interception.

Targeted Military Bases

The IRGC stated that the missile attacks targeted three military bases in the Tel Aviv area, utilizing Fatah hypersonic ballistic missiles for the first time. The Israeli military reported intercepting a significant number of the approximately 180 missiles fired.

Khamenei's Prediction of Victory

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei proclaimed the possibility of an “imminent divine victory” for his nation, urging followers to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.

International Response

In Washington, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been closely monitoring the situation from the situation room. Biden has directed the US military to assist Israel in intercepting missiles and has reaffirmed the US's commitment to Israel's defense.

Hamas Supports Iranian Actions

The Palestinian group Hamas hailed the Iranian missile launch as a “heroic” response, calling for unity among countries in the region against Israel.

Conclusion of the Attack

The White House confirmed that US naval destroyers collaborated with Israeli forces in shooting down Iranian missiles, describing the situation as a major escalation and emphasizing the need for continued vigilance.