Hundreds of Ballistic Missiles Launched by Iran Towards Israel.
Israel, with the assistance of U.S. naval destroyers, successfully intercepted the majority of the missiles launched by Iran, resulting in minimal damage and casualties.
On Oct. 1, Iran initiated what was described as the largest ballistic missile attack in history against Israel. Despite this massive assault, Israel managed to mitigate the damage and casualties by intercepting most of the incoming missiles.
In response to the attack, virtually the entire population of 10 million Israelis sought refuge in bomb shelters and safe rooms for an hour until the all-clear signal was given by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Assistance from the U.S. naval destroyers, USS Cole and USS Bulkeley, was crucial in neutralizing Iran’s missiles aimed at Israel. The Pentagon spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, confirmed that around a dozen interceptors were launched by the destroyers.
The missile barrage by Iran was a reprisal for Israel’s recent targeted strikes against Hezbollah, Lebanon’s Iran-backed proxy. Israel’s military operations included the destruction of Hezbollah leaders’ communication devices and an airstrike that eliminated the group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah.
Iran’s missile attack was also linked to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, supposedly orchestrated by Israel. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) of Iran carried out the strike and warned of further retaliation if Israel responded.
In response to the escalating tensions, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that while there were no reported Israeli casualties, an investigation was underway regarding the death of a Palestinian in Jericho.
The IDF remained vigilant, with Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari affirming readiness for defensive and offensive actions to protect Israel’s citizens. The attack, described as more intense than prior incidents, prompted thorough defensive preparations and strategic plans from Israel’s military.
Notably, the recent missile attack by Iran posed a more imminent threat due to the shorter timeframe for missiles to reach Israel, emphasizing the urgency of safety measures.
Contributions from The Associated Press and Reuters to this report.
