In an unprecedented revenge attack that is expected to push the Middle East ever closer to a regionwide war, Iran on late Saturday launched dozens of drones and ballistic missiles toward Israel. Air raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem as a series of explosions were heard in the skies.
More than 200 “threats” including missiles and drones were launched toward Israel on Saturday night, according to Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson Daniel Hagari. He also said many were intercepted by Israel’s aerial defence systems, including fighter jets.
Ahead of the attack, Israeli aviation authorities said they were closing the country’s airspace to all flights as it braced for a drone attack.
Meanwhile, the US stated its allegiance and said it stands with the people of Israel and supports their defence against this threat from Iran, National Security Council’s spokesperson at the White House Adrienne Watson said.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Watson also said this attack is likely to unfold over several hours. “Iran has begun an airborne attack against Israel” and President Joe Biden’s team is in constant communication with Israeli officials as well as other partners and allies, the spokesperson said.
Biden Conevenes Meeting of G-7 Leaders
US President Joe Biden condemned Iran’s unprecedented air attack on Israel and convened a meeting of the G-7 leaders on Sunday to develop a coordinated response to the brazen assault.
His comments came as American forces joined efforts to down drones and missiles launched by Tehran. Israel said it and its allies have intercepted the vast majority of more than 200 drones and missiles launched by Iran
Earlier, he met his national security team over the situation in the region, according to the statement.
On his return, he was briefed about the developments by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer.
UN Security Council Convenes Emergency Meeting
The UN Security Council has called an emergency meeting on Sunday to discuss Iran’s recent attack on Israel. Israel has requested an urgent convening of the council and has demanded that the council unequivocally condemn Iran’s attack and declare the Revolutionary Guards a terrorist organisation.
A spokesperson for Malta, which currently holds the rotating presidency, stated that the Security Council intends to hold the meeting at 4:00 pm (2000 GMT).
Israel’s PM on Iran Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised Israel’s preparedness to defend itself against threats and expressed gratitude for the support of the United States, Britain, France, and other nations.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Reacts
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, condemned the recent escalation of violence following Iran’s attack on Israel and urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities and expressed deep concern about the possibility of further escalation.
Guterres also called on all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint to prevent a broader military confrontation in the Middle East. He emphasised that another war in the region would be catastrophic, not only for the region but for the entire world.
British PM Sunak on Israel Drone Strikes
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned Iran’s reckless attack on Israel, stating it showed Iran’s intent on sowing chaos in its backyard.
“These strikes risk inflaming tensions and destabilising the region. Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on sowing chaos in its own backyard,” Sunak said in a statement.
Justin Trudeau on Iran Airstrikes
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his strong condemnation of Iran’s airborne attacks against Israel.
In a statement, he made it clear that his nation unequivocally stands with Israel. He added that the Iranian regime’s latest actions will only further destabilise the region and make it more difficult to achieve lasting peace.
Trudeau also affirmed his support for Israel’s right to defend itself and its people from such attacks.
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