Israel Braces for Dangerous Iranian UAV/ Drone Attack

Israel is bracing for a direct attack from Iran. American sources say some 500+ Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV’S) have been sent toward Israel from Iranian bases. Some 50 – 75 drones have been reported to be on the way as well. The aircraft are expected to arrive in Israel at some point between 2 am and 6 am. 

This comes after Israel hit an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria. The attack was on Monday, April 1st and it 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. 

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. 

IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari released a statement:

“Iran has launched a direct attack from Iranian soil toward the State of Israel. We are closely monitoring Iranian killer drones that are en-route to Israel sent by Iran. This is a severe and dangerous escalation. Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest level of readiness ahead of this large- scale attack from Iran. Together with our partners, the Israel Defense Forces is operating at full-force to defend the State of Israel and the people of Israel. This is a mission that we are determined and ready to fulfill. 

Prime Minister Netanyahu says: 

“Citizens of Israel, In recent years, and especially in recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively. The State of Israel is strong. The IDF is strong. The public is strong. We appreciate the US standing alongside Israel, as well as the support of Britain, France and many other countries.

We have determined a clear principle: Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We will defend ourselves against any threat and will do so level-headedly and with determination.

 Citizens of Israel, I know that you also are also level-headed. I call on you to follow the directives of IDF Home Front Command.

 Together we will stand and with G-d’s help – together we will overcome all of our enemies.”

The areas of impact are expected to be the Golan Heights, and the air force base in the Negev. 

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.