Israel braces for Iranian missile onslaught amid rising tensions
Israel is bracing itself for an Iranian strike. Hundreds of air raid warnings have been issued across the country.
"All Israeli civilians are in bomb shelters, as missiles from Iran are being launched towards Israel," report the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Alarm sirens have been activated throughout the country.
The first images of missiles being launched by Iran have already emerged online. These missiles are reportedly heading towards Israel.
Earlier, the United States warned of a possible Iranian strike. According to "The New York Times," it was expected to occur within the next few hours. "The United States has signals that Iran is ready to launch ballistic missiles towards Israel," said a White House official in a statement quoted by American and European news agencies.
"The Israeli military remains in a state of highest readiness - both defensively and offensively. We have plans and capabilities," said Israeli army spokesperson Daniel Hagari, adding that Israel is prepared to handle the impending threat. Tehran has repeatedly declared that it will retaliate for Israeli attacks on Iranian interests and allies in the region, including Hezbollah.
According to Sky News, loud explosions can be heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Initial information suggests that about 100 missiles have been launched towards Israel.
Reuters reports that Iranian television announced a forthcoming statement from the Revolutionary Guard. The agency also reports that missiles heading towards Israel are being intercepted over Jordan.
According to the latest reports from Reuters, there are currently "dozens of missiles" in Jordanian airspace.
The Iranian news agency MEHR reports that "Iran's retaliatory attack has begun."
The Israel Defense Forces state that the target of the Iranian attack is "10 million Israelis."
"The shelling is still ongoing. Please remain in a protected area until further notice. The explosions you hear are from interceptions or impacts. The air defence system is continuously detecting and intercepting threats," reports the IDF.
