Iranian ballistic missiles were seen flying over Jerusalem's Old City on Tuesday, prompting a joint response from Israel and the United States. Here's what we know so far about the incident and the aftermath.
Israeli forces, supported by the United States, successfully defended against a barrage of ballistic missiles launched by Iran on Tuesday. The attack, deemed "a significant escalation" by White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, targeted the heart of Israeli territories.
According to Iranian state media, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the strike, labeling it as retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, IRGC commander Abbas Nilforushan, and Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas.
Israel Defends Attacks by Ballistic Missiles from Iran
Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepted several of the incoming missiles, while US Navy destroyers positioned in the eastern Mediterranean joined Israeli Air Defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down additional threats.
In response to the attack, Israel closed its airspace, ordered residents in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to shelter in place, and convened its security cabinet in a bunker. However, no casualties have been reported as of yet.
Israel Defends Attacks by Ballistic Missiles from Iran
The US has played a "significant" role in helping Israel fend off Iran's aerial assault, according to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who has expressed his readiness to provide additional defensive support.
Three guided-missile destroyers, including the USS Arleigh Burke, USS Bulkeley, and USS Cole, were deployed to assist Israel's defenses. These ships coordinated closely with Israeli forces during the attack, using SM-3 ballistic missile interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles with a range of up to 1,550 miles.
Israel Defends Attacks by Ballistic Missiles from Iran
In addition to the Iron Dome, Israel also employs the Arrow Missile Defense System, capable of intercepting missiles fired from up to 1,500 miles away and above the earth's atmosphere. David's Sling, another Israeli air defense system, can neutralize enemy planes, drones, rockets, and cruise missiles within a range of 25 to 190 miles.
Israeli Defense Forces spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari announced that the Iranian strikes had stopped and that Israelis could safely leave their shelters. Despite assessing the impact of the attack, no casualties have been reported.
Israel Defends Attacks by Ballistic Missiles from Iran
The joint response by Israel and the United States highlights their close cooperation in matters of defense and security, especially against threats from Iran and its proxies.
