Iran has launched over 180 ballistic missiles targeting Israel, escalating tensions in the region. This marks the second assault by Iran this year, following a previous attack in April that involved hundreds of missiles and drones. In response to the recent missile strike, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of “consequences.”
Iran has fired hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israel as civilians rushed to shelter sites across the country. https://t.co/VY5LUpRGf8 pic.twitter.com/1ImRukSqLU
— New York Post (@nypost) October 1, 2024
According to an Israeli security official, most missiles were intercepted by Israel’s air defense systems. However, reports indicate that some military bases and schools were struck. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran claims that 90% of the missiles reached their intended targets and announced the use of hypersonic missiles for the first time. They stated that three Israeli military bases were specifically targeted.
Why Did Iran Attack Israel?
The IRGC asserts that the missile attacks were a response to the deaths of key Iranian commanders and leaders affiliated with Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and IRGC commander Abbas Nilforoshan, who were killed in Beirut on September 27. Additionally, they mentioned the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July, a death that, while not officially attributed to Israel, is widely believed to involve Israeli involvement. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly ordered the missile strikes. Iran does not recognize Israel and has supported groups that oppose it, while Israel views Iran as a significant threat and has conducted covert operations against it for years.
Israel and Iran have been at odds for decades due to various reasons, primarily their conflicting ideologies. Iran, an Islamic Republic, does not acknowledge Israel’s right to exist and seeks its destruction. It also supports militant groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas, which frequently attack Israel. Additionally, both nations vie for power in the Middle East—while Iran aims to expand its influence, Israel attempts to counter that growth, especially in neighboring countries. The proxy war between the two has now escalated into direct conflict.
Israel’s Response
Prime Minister Netanyahu characterized Iran’s actions as a “big mistake” and promised that Iran will “pay for it.” IDF spokesperson Daniel Haggari stated, “We have plans, and we will strike when and where we choose.” In retaliation, the IRGC warned that any Israeli response would be “even more damaging.” Concurrently, the Israeli military launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut, advising residents in southern suburbs to evacuate.
US Support for Israel
In light of the missile attacks, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed America’s support for Israel, declaring the attack “defeated and ineffective.” He ordered US forces in the region to assist in defending Israel and intercepting Iranian missiles. A Pentagon spokesperson reported that US Navy destroyers fired about a dozen interceptors to thwart missiles aimed at Israel. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed several successful interceptions and condemned Iran’s actions as “outrageous.”
Israel’s Advanced Defense Systems
Israel boasts a robust defense system, which reportedly intercepted the majority of missiles launched by Iran. Its multi-layered defense strategy is designed to counter various aerial threats, including rockets, missiles, and drones. The Iron Dome, Israel’s most recognized system, effectively neutralizes short-range rockets and artillery shells, particularly from groups like Hamas. For medium- to long-range threats, Israel employs David’s Sling, which can intercept larger rockets and missiles beyond the Iron Dome’s capacity.
To counter long-range ballistic missiles, Israel utilizes Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 systems. Arrow 2 intercepts missiles within the atmosphere, while Arrow 3 targets missiles in space, enhancing protection against advanced missile attacks, particularly from Iran. Additionally, Israel employs the Barak-8 system to defend against aircraft and drones, and the Patriot Missile System for intercepting planes and tactical missiles.
