According to a statement from the Israeli military, Iran launched drones towards Israel on Saturday evening.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Iran had deployed unmanned aerial vehicles from its territory towards Israel.
The IDF is closely monitoring the situation and has placed its Aerial Defense Array, fighter jets, and Navy vessels on high alert to defend Israeli airspace.
No further details about the drone attack were immediately available. Israeli officials say it might take several hours for the drones to reach Israeli airspace.
Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council, described the incident as “an airborne attack against Israel” initiated by Iran.
President Biden returned to the White House on Saturday in preparation for potential developments related to the attack.
The White House issued a statement confirming that President Biden is receiving regular updates from his national security team and is in constant communication with Israeli officials and allies. The statement reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Israel’s security.
The U.S. is on standby for further action by Iran or its proxies in the region, according to a U.S. official.
The U.S. has deployed assets in Iraq and Syria capable of intercepting incoming drones and has fighter jets on standby.
Iran’s attack is seen as retaliation for an Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1, which resulted in the death of seven members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation in a video message, assuring citizens that Israel is prepared for any scenario and that its defense systems are fully deployed.
Tensions in the region escalated further when commandos from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard seized an Israeli-affiliated container ship near the Strait of Hormuz.
The U.S. government condemned the seizure and called for the immediate release of the vessel and its crew, labeling the action a blatant violation of international law.
In response to heightened tensions, the U.S. has placed all its embassies in the Middle East on high alert and instructed diplomats in Lebanon and Israel to avoid certain areas.
Additionally, Jordan has closed its airspace, and Israel announced a temporary closure of its airspace during specific hours.
