By Aaior K. Comfort

Israel has threatened retaliation following a missile barrage from Iran, which targeted its territory late Tuesday night. In response to the attack, Iran warned it would strike “all infrastructure” in Israel if it comes under further assault.

The Israeli military reported that most of the missiles, which included hypersonic weapons, were intercepted by its air defenses or those of allied forces. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed that approximately 200 missiles were fired at Israel, targeting military bases around Tel Aviv and beyond.

In light of the attack, President Joe Biden expressed full support for Israel and stated that discussions on the U.S. response were ongoing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden described the situation as “in active discussion right now.”

The missile attack has prompted a strong reaction from U.S. officials. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin condemned it as an “outrageous act of aggression,” while National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan warned of “severe consequences” for Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remarked, “Iran made a big mistake tonight and will pay for it,” emphasizing Israel’s commitment to retaliate. In contrast, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that Tehran’s actions were a response to Israel’s previous assaults, including the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

As the conflict escalates, the Israeli military announced it would continue operations against Iranian positions in the region, including airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Beirut. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

This missile barrage marks Iran’s second direct attack on Israel within a few months, following a similar incident in April. The escalating tensions in the region come amid ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas, with significant casualties reported on both sides.