Israel vows to retaliate as Biden, Starmer condemn Iran’s attack

Israel has vowed “there will be repercussions” following an “extensive” missile attack by Iran. In a move anticipated by officials, nearly 200 missiles were launched earlier this evening, according to Israel’s army radio.

Israelis had been told to seek safety in bomb shelters and warning sirens sounded in Jerusalem shortly after 5:30p.m. UK time. Window-shaking explosions were heard in Tel Aviv and near Jerusalem, though it was not initially clear whether the noise was from missiles landing, being intercepted by Israeli defences, or both.

At around 6:30p.m. UK time, Israelis were given permission to leave the protected spaces. The attack, in retaliation for Israel’s campaign against the Hezbollah group in Lebanon, marks a significant escalation in the conflict.

British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer and American President, Joe Biden were among the world leaders that condemned Iran’s missiles attack on Israel yesterday.

Iran launched dozens of missiles toward Israel yesterday in what it said was a response to the killing of Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah and others – potentially taking the region closer to a wider conflict.

Israel’s military said it estimated that Iran fired 180 “projectiles” at the country.Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari called the barrage a “serious attack” and said “there will be serious consequences.” Starmer condemned the attack ‘in strongest possible terms’.

According to a statement from Downing Street, Starmer had conversations with Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. A Downing Street spokesperson said they discussed the escalating situation across the Middle East.

“During the call, the PM underlined the importance of a ceasefire in Lebanon to allow space for a political solution in line with UN Security Council resolution 1701.”

Biden on his part directed the U.S. military to aid Israel in the light of the attack. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, said President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris “convened two meetings with their national security team” yesterday.

Additionally, Mr Biden “directed the US military to aid Israel’s defence against Iranian attacks and shoot down missiles targeting Israel.” Ms Jean-Pierre said: “They also reviewed preparations to protect US personnel in the region.”

Also, the US Department of Defence said the US Navy destroyers positioned in the Middle East region fired about a dozen interceptor weapons against the barrage of missiles that were fired from Iran into Israel.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder told reporters that no other US military assets were used to shoot down the missiles, which were all fired from inside Iran.

Meanwhile, Israel is threatening to retaliate against Iran.The Israeli military spokesperson, Hagari described the attack as “very serious” and pledged that the attack “will have consequences”. He added that the country remained on high alert. The situation across Israel and the region remains extremely tensed.