Iranian air defenses successfully intercept Israeli attacks on Tehran
Israeli warplanes launched an extensive air assault on Iranian targets early Saturday, with multiple explosions reported near Tehran and surrounding areas.
The Israeli military confirmed its Air Force is actively striking what it describes as "military targets" in Iran, urging Israeli residents to remain "alert and vigilant."
Explosions were first reported near Tehran, including areas south of the capital in Eslamshahr, according to local sources. Iranian air defenses activated immediately, intercepting multiple incoming projectiles. The city’s Imam Khomeini International Airport and Mehrabad International Airport were unaffected, Iranian officials stated.
A second wave of airstrikes took place around 4:30 a.m. local time. Iranian air defenses, utilizing medium-range interceptors, successfully engaged hostile objects targeting bases in eastern Tehran Province. Footage circulating online shows several interceptions over eastern areas of Tehran.
Sean Savett, White House National Security Council spokesperson, reported that the U.S. was informed of Israel’s plans in advance, clarifying that the United States is not participating in the assault. President Joe Biden is reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
The strikes come after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched over 200 ballistic missiles at Israeli sites on October 1, reportedly in retaliation for the killing of prominent regional leaders, including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Israel’s latest aggression was declared "successful" by its military command in a statement made around 6:00 a.m. local time.
Israel’s command indicated it would reveal further details about the operations in due course. The recent exchange of hostilities marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, with further developments expected as both nations brace for potential retaliations. (ILKHA)