Israel experienced some 150 UAVs overhead between 1:55 am and 4:00 am early Sunday Morning, April 14th, 2024. This direct hit from Iran left Israelis nervous as they witnessed the night skies lit up with hostile aircraft and missiles.
Israel’s Defense Forces spokesperson states that a vast majority of the missiles launched from Iran were intercepted outside the borders of the country. Dozens of missiles did, however, make their way into Israeli airspace.
Israel’s “Arrow” defense system kicked into gear to intercept long-range rockets.
Nations like the United Kingdom have employed British fighter jets to assist in intercepting UAVs. Jordan has closed its airways and says it is planning to shoot down any aircraft that enters its airspace. Saudi Arabia has also said it would shoot down drones and missiles. Iraq has closed its airspace. American forces intercepted drones over Iraq and Syria. President Biden is meeting in the White House situation room with advisers to discuss the situation.
Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant had a phone call with the U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to discuss the updates.
Three people were reportedly killed in a drone strike in Jordan.
A few injuries occurred during this time, with one recorded at a military base in the south of Israel. The base’s infrastructure was minorly damaged. A 10-year-old Bedouin girl was reported to have been hurt by shrapnel.
Between 1:55 am and 4 am, dozens of hostile aircraft were identified and intercepted, along with dozens of cruise missiles that made their way to Israel from Iran. At 4:40 am, reports show some 80 more drones are on their way to Israel and have not yet been intercepted.
We are waiting for them, expected to arrive by 05:30 that they may send additional ballistic/cruise missiles along with them.
Residents of settlements north of the Golan Heights, Nabatim area, Dimona, Eilat, Beer Sheva and Arad were told to stay near a shelter. That guidance has been rescinded.
Israel has demanded the UN Security Council host an emergency meeting regarding Iran’s attack.
This comes after Israel hit an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria. That attack took place on Monday, April 1st and killed 12 people including Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a high-ranking Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps commander and his deputy, Mohammad Hadi Haji Rahimi.
Iran said that hitting a consulate was like hitting sovereign Iranian territory and that it would be striking back. Israel has said whoever harms it will be harmed. Leaders from the United States are discussing a strong U.S. retaliation.
Some suggestions for the Israeli public:
- Know where your closest shelter is
- Pack a to-go bag with important documents and change of clothes
- Fill up water bottles
- Charge your devices
- Take Vitamin C as a precaution against a potential nuclear attack.
