With tensions escalating between Iran & Israel, the Middle East braces for potential fallout.
Iran carried out a significant drone attack on Israel on Saturday, with the operation expected to take hours to reach its intended targets, as reported by Israel's military and confirmed by Iranian state media citing the Revolutionary Guards. The attack, part of Operation 'Mission True Promise,' is believed to be in response to perceived Israeli actions. Alongside drones, Iran also launched cruise missiles at Israel, according to a report by Israel's Channel 12 TV.
Jordan has heightened its air defenses in response, positioning them to intercept any Iranian drones or aircraft that enter its airspace. The country has also declared a state of emergency. As tensions escalate and Israel closes its airspace, El Al Airlines has cancelled 15 flights scheduled for the weekend, affecting various destinations.
Syria has also ramped up its defenses, deploying its Russian-made Pantsir ground-to-air defense systems around major bases and the capital. Reports suggest that drones were observed departing from Iran towards Israel via Iraqi airspace.
The Iranian action is believed to be a retaliation for an alleged Israeli attack on its Damascus consulate, resulting in the deaths of seven Revolutionary Guards officers. Although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement, tensions between the two countries have escalated.
US President Joe Biden has reiterated his support for Israel in the face of Iranian aggression. Retired Israeli General Amos Yadlin disclosed that the drones carried approximately 20 kg of explosives each.
Israel's military has activated sirens in threatened areas and announced its readiness to respond to potential threats. In response to the escalating situation, both Israel and neighboring Jordan have closed their airspace.
The ongoing Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, coupled with reports of long-range attacks on Israeli targets from Yemen and Iraq, has further heightened tensions in the region.
Earlier in the day, Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported that a Guards helicopter redirected the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries into Iranian waters. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz condemned Iran's actions as piracy, adding to the complexity of the situation in the Middle East.