Iran Warns of Further Action After Launching Missile Barrage at Israel

The attack on Israel was in retaliation for a strike in Syria that killed top Iranian military officers. This was the first time Iran has struck Israel from its own soil. In a statement, Iran claimed that the attack was carried out in self-defense against what they termed Israeli military’s “aggression.”

The statement suggested that the action was a “legitimate” defensive response to a strike in Damascus, which Israel has not acknowledged carrying out, and was also intended as a warning. Iran warned the US to stay away from the conflict. The Iranian mission to the United Nations stated that the military strikes were carried out in exercise of its inherent right of self-defense under Article 51 of the Charter.

The action was said to be a response to Israel’s recurring military aggressions, resulting in the martyrdom of Iranian military advisors present in Syria. Iran also reiterated its readiness to launch further attacks if Israel does not cease its actions. Sirens wailed and distant heavy thuds and bangs were heard by Reuters journalists in Israel, which local media called aerial interceptions of explosive drones.

Authorities reported a 7-year-old girl was critically injured. Israel’s military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, stated that Iran launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted outside Israeli borders. He noted that more than 10 cruise missiles were included in the attack.

Iran warned that it would not hesitate to take further necessary defensive measures to protect its legitimate interests against any act of military aggression or unlawful use of force.