Israelis rushed to shelters as alarms blared and explosions echoed in Jerusalem and the Jordan River Valley, following Iran’s launch of a barrage of ballistic missiles in retaliation for Israel’s operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Reports indicate that as many as 100 missiles were fired, with some intercepted over Jordan.
In response to the missile threat, the Israeli military had earlier advised the public to take cover in safe rooms. The escalation comes after Israel conducted ground raids in Lebanon, marking the first significant military action there in 18 years, which has sparked fears of a broader regional conflict.
US President Joe Biden affirmed that the United States stands ready to assist Israel in defending itself against Iranian missile attacks, emphasizing the commitment to protect American personnel in the region. This missile launch is part of a rapid escalation of conflict, following intense Israeli airstrikes that have reportedly killed many top Hezbollah leaders and resulted in significant civilian casualties in Lebanon.
As the situation intensifies, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, with many Lebanese expressing their determination to resist Israeli forces. In a related incident, at least seven people were injured in a suspected terrorist shooting in Tel Aviv, as emergency services responded to multiple locations.
Additionally, the US has imposed sanctions on the “Hilltop Youth,” an extremist Israeli settler group, amid rising tensions in the West Bank. These sanctions aim to address violence and instability that threaten the long-term interests of both Israelis and Palestinians.
