In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Iran has launched more than 100 drones targeting Israel, according to Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Deffrin.
He confirmed that Israel’s defence systems were fully engaged in countering the aerial threat.
“In the last few hours, Iran has launched more than 100 drones toward Israel, and all the defence systems are acting to intercept the threats,” Deffrin was quoted by PTI.
The large-scale drone assault follows Israel’s recent strikes on several Iranian sites, including critical components of its nuclear infrastructure.
The military operation reportedly came in the wake of warnings by former U.S. President Donald Trump about the potential for a “massive conflict” in the region.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces had “struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme.”
He emphasized that the military action would persist “as many days as it takes,” adding, “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history.”
Netanyahu revealed that the operation specifically targeted Iranian nuclear scientists, missile experts, and facilities tied to uranium enrichment, including the Natanz complex.
“Iranian scientists involved in the nuclear bomb, ballistic missile programme, and Natanz uranium enrichment facility were targeted,” he said.
Iranian state media painted a grim picture of the fallout, reporting that Israeli airstrikes had struck residential areas in Tehran, resulting in civilian casualties.
The IRNA news agency noted, “A number of people including women and children were martyred in a residential complex in Tehran.”
As regional tensions flare, Jordan has taken precautionary steps to ensure air safety.
The Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission has temporarily closed the country’s airspace to all flights.
The Jordan News Agency quoted CARC Chief Commissioner Haitham Misto as saying the measure was taken “in accordance with the international civil aviation standards and obligations relating to the safety of flights.”
