'This Will Have Consequences', says IDF After Iran Launches 180 Ballistic Missiles Targeting Israel

On the eve of Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year ), Israel is under attack as around 180 ballistic missiles have been launched from Iran, triggering sirens across the country. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that missiles were fired from Iran, with alarms sounding in central and southern Israel, as citizens were urged to seek shelter immediately.

Footage from various parts of Israel shows missile interceptions and falling debris, as defense systems engage to protect populated areas. The IDF emphasized that explosions heard in several regions were due to missile interceptions or impacts. Shrapnel or rocket debris has been reported in Tel Aviv, the Sharon region, and near the Dead Sea, although no injuries have been confirmed so far.

"You are asked to stay in a protected area until further notice," the IDF said in a public statement, advising the population to remain in shelter as the missile fire continues.

U.S. Monitoring the Situation

In Washington, the White House confirmed that U.S. President Joe Biden held a meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security advisers earlier in the day to assess the imminent threat from Iran. The White House statement, released after the attacks began, noted that the U.S. had reviewed preparations to assist Israel in defending against the missile strikes and ensuring the safety of American personnel in the region.

"They reviewed the status of U.S. preparations to help Israel defend against these attacks and protect U.S. personnel in the region," the White House statement said.

Ongoing Threat

The missile fire from Iran remains ongoing as Israel's defense systems continue to intercept incoming rockets. The IDF is monitoring the situation closely, with multiple impact sites already reported. Israelis are being urged to remain vigilant and stay in protected areas until further instructions are provided.

As the situation develops, the nation remains on high alert, and further updates are expected as the defense forces respond to the largest missile barrage in recent history. According to multiple reports, this time, it took around 15 minutes for the first barrage of missiles to reach Israel, from Iran.

Iran had attacked Israel back in April as well. At that time, Israel successfully defended itself with help from key allies. However, back in April, Israel didn't respond in kind. This time, the fear is, Israel may. 

Meanwhile, the Pentagon has released a statement that says "United States is well-postured to defend U.S. personnel, allies and partners in the face of threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations.”

Reports suggest that during a phone conversation between Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, both discussed the severe consequences Iran will face. Biden has directed that US military to "aid Israel’s defense against Iranian attacks and shoot down missiles that are targeting Israel.”

Iran, for its part, through its state media, has indicated that if Israel responds, it'll face a “more crushing and ruinous” response from Tehran. The New York Time is reporting that people in Tehran are cheering “God is great” to celebrate Iran's attack on the Jewish state. 

This missile fire will have consequences, says Israel

IDF's spokesperson Daniel Hagari has stated that- 

"Dear citizens,

A short time ago, missiles were launched from Iran towards the State of Israel. You are asked to remain vigilant and follow the Home Front Command's instructions precisely. In the last few minutes, the Home Front Command has sent messages to mobile phones in certain areas with life-saving instructions, directing people to enter protected spaces. You must reach the safest protected space in your vicinity. Upon hearing a siren, immediately enter a protected space and remain there until further instructions are given.

The air defense system is fully operational, detecting and intercepting threats wherever necessary, even at this moment. However, the defense is not hermetic, and therefore it is essential to follow the Home Front Command's instructions. You may hear explosions, which could be the result of interceptions or impacts. Due to the variety of threats, alarms may be triggered in widespread areas. Stay updated on the instructions via the official pages of the Home Front Command and the IDF Spokesperson."

According to a report from Israeli media, he added that “This [missile] fire will have consequences. We have plans, and we will act in the time and place that we choose”.

UN says it is worried about escalation

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said that “I condemn the broadening of the Middle East conflict with escalation after escalation.  This must stop.  We absolutely need a ceasefire.”

However, the official Twitter account of Israel quickly responded to Guterres's tweet by writing “We condemn your inability to string together a tweet which holds Iran responsible for firing 181 ballistic missiles at 10 million Israeli civilians”. 

Just some days ago, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech at the UNGA, calling it a swamp filled with anti-Semites.