In a major escalation, Iran has launched over 100 drones at Israel following Israel’s early morning airstrike involving nearly 200 fighter jets. The development marks a dangerous turn in regional hostilities, bringing the Middle East closer to full-scale war.
According to Israeli Army Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin, Tehran’s drone attack is retaliation for the targeted assassination of multiple high-ranking Iranian military officials during Israel’s strike, codenamed Operation Rising Lion.
“We are actively intercepting dozens of incoming drones,” Defrin said during a press briefing. “Our defense systems remain on high alert, and operations are ongoing.”
Top Iranian Military Leaders Killed
The Israeli assault earlier in the day led to the deaths of several of Iran’s most powerful military figures. Confirmed casualties include:
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General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s Chief of Staff
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Hossein Salami, Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
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Gholam Ali Rashid, senior IRGC commander and strategic adviser
These assassinations are considered a major blow to Iran’s military command structure, prompting Tehran to respond swiftly and with overwhelming force.
Iranian state media described the retaliatory drone barrage as a “first phase” of its response, warning that further action may follow if Israel continues its military campaign.
Interception Efforts Underway
As Iranian drones head toward various Israeli targets, Israel’s multi-layered defense systems—including Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow-3—have been activated. Several drones have already been intercepted over southern Israel and the Negev Desert.
Authorities in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa have ordered residents to remain in shelters. Air raid sirens have been ringing throughout the country, and flights have been grounded at Ben Gurion Airport.
This high-stakes exchange marks the most direct confrontation between Israel and Iran in modern history, raising fears of wider conflict engulfing the region. The coming hours are critical, as the world watches how both nations proceed.
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