JERUSALEM/BEIRUT, Oct 1 — In a dramatic turn of events, Iran has launched a series of ballistic missiles aimed at Israel, escalating the ongoing conflict. This strike comes in response to Israel’s recent military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
As the missiles flew, alarms blared throughout Israel, sending many people rushing into bomb shelters. Loud explosions could be heard in Jerusalem and the Jordan River valley, creating a sense of panic. During live broadcasts, reporters were seen taking cover, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Reports indicate that around 200 missiles were fired, with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claiming that they would retaliate even more forcefully if Israel strikes back.
After the missile attack, the Israeli military declared an all-clear, allowing residents to leave their shelters. Military spokesperson Daniel Hagari characterized the assault as serious, indicating that it would have significant repercussions, but noted that there were no reports of injuries.
A high-ranking Iranian official revealed that the order to launch the missiles came from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is currently in a secure location. Witnesses reported that some missiles were intercepted in Jordanian airspace, showcasing the wider implications of this conflict.
The missile strikes also caused a spike in oil prices, rising by five percent amid fears of an expanding conflict. In a previous incident in April, Iranian missiles targeted Israel but were intercepted with assistance from the U.S. military, leading to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian positions without escalating the conflict further.
Tensions in Lebanon Intensify
This latest missile strike is set against the backdrop of Israel’s airstrikes that have taken out key Hezbollah leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah. In retaliation, Iran had promised to take action. Israeli forces have also conducted limited ground operations in Lebanon, marking a significant military engagement in the region for the first time in years.
In the United States, President Joe Biden reiterated support for Israel, stating that the U.S. is prepared to help Israel defend itself against Iranian missile threats. He emphasized the need to protect American personnel in the region during a meeting with his national security team.
The rising violence has drawn international concern. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the ongoing hostilities and called for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation.
The humanitarian situation in Lebanon continues to worsen. Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed over a thousand Lebanese civilians, displacing many more. Residents have shared their tragic stories. One Sidon resident, Abdulhamid Ramadan, expressed his grief, saying, “I lost my wife and daughter. My life changed in an instant.”
United Front Against Israel
In Lebanon, there is a growing sense of unity among citizens against Israeli actions. “This time, it’s not just Hezbollah; all of Lebanon is ready to fight back. We must resist Israel for the pain it has caused in Gaza and Lebanon,” declared Abu Alaa, a local resident.
In response to the missile attacks, Israel has intensified its military operations, targeting locations in Beirut and nearby areas, claiming these actions are precise strikes. The Israeli military is focused on securing its northern border to allow residents to return home safely.
Israeli troops have begun limited incursions into southern Lebanon, though officials have indicated there have been no direct clashes with Hezbollah fighters. In preparation for potential escalation, the Israeli military announced the mobilization of additional reserve brigades for operations along the northern border.
Israel’s involvement in Lebanon has a long history, beginning with its 1982 invasion amid the country’s civil war. After a military withdrawal in 2000, Israel faced another significant conflict with Hezbollah in 2006. The situation remains delicate, with the United Nations monitoring the border region to prevent further conflict.
Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has become Lebanon’s most formidable military force, armed with an extensive missile arsenal. As tensions rise, both sides appear poised for potential conflict, leaving the future uncertain in this volatile region.
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