Iranian rocket barrage sparks regional fears as conflict escalates
Over Jerusalem, the sounds of intercepting rockets and explosions can be heard, according to AFP journalists. Israeli media reports that Iran has launched over 100 rockets.
Reuters reports, citing eyewitnesses, that Iranian rockets were visible in Jordanian airspace, where they were subsequently intercepted. Reuters witnesses also reported hearing loud explosions in the Jordan Valley, in western Jordan.
The Iranian Student News Agency has released videos showing rockets flying over Tehran. These videos confirm heightened military activity in the region.
Iran's Tuesday attack is claimed to be in retaliation for Israel's campaign against Tehran's Hezbollah allies in Lebanon. Reuters reports that alarms sounded throughout Israel, and explosions could be heard in Jerusalem and the Jordan Valley, as Israelis gathered in bomb shelters. State television reporters lay flat on the ground during a live broadcast.
Earlier, the military announced that any potential rocket attack from Iran would have a wide range and asked the population to take shelter in safe rooms in case of an attack.
Concerns about conflict spreading
Iran announced retaliation after attacks that killed the senior leadership of its Hezbollah allies in Lebanon. The rocket launch came after Israel reported its forces initiated airstrikes on Lebanon, although it described them as limited. Israel's campaign in Lebanon is the biggest escalation of the regional war since the outbreak of fighting in Gaza a year ago.
Iran's announcement of retaliation and its execution raises concerns that the war may spread beyond borders throughout the region, despite efforts by the United States, Israel's closest and most powerful ally, to prevent it.
