Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting Israel in response to assassination of Palestinian Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31. Sirens blared throughout Israel, and explosions were reported in Jerusalem as residents sought refuge in bomb shelters.
During live broadcasts, reporters on state television observed missiles being intercepted over neighboring Jordan. Israeli media indicated that as many as 100 missiles were fired. Previously, the military had warned that any ballistic missile assault from Iran was anticipated to be extensive and advised the public to take shelter in secure locations in case of an attack.
Iran has pledged to retaliate following assaults that resulted in the deaths of key leaders of its Hezbollah allies in Lebanon. The missile launch occurred after Israel announced that its forces had conducted ground incursions into Lebanon, although these operations were characterized as limited. This Israeli initiative in Lebanon marks the most significant escalation of regional conflict since hostilities began in Gaza a year ago.
In Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden stated that the United States stands ready to assist Israel in defending itself against missile attacks from Iran. “We talked about the United States’ readiness to support Israel in countering these assaults and ensuring the safety of American personnel in the area,” Biden remarked on X following a meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris and the White House national security team earlier that day.
The missile launches from Iran occurred subsequent to Israeli ground forces conducting operations in Lebanon and its aircraft carrying out bombings.