Moment Iran began its 300

Release time：2024-05-21 08:20:59 Source：Planet Pulse news portal

This is the moment Iran began its 300 missile attack against Israel last night, as the world holds its breath over fears of World War III.

Footage released by Iranian state TV shows huge clouds of smoke and blinding flashes as hundreds of missiles were fired in retaliation to a drone strike at the beginning of April in Syria that killed 12 Iranians, including two top generals.

The strike marks the first time a direct military assault has been launched by Tehran on Israel despite decades enmity dating back to the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution. 

This morning, Israel said it 'foiled' Iran's unprecedented attack on its country and revealed 120 ballistic missiles along with 200 drones were used.

Syria has said Iran exercised their 'right to self-defence' in the attack on Israel.

It comes as Prime Minster Rishi Sunak confirmed RAF pilots shot down 'a number' of Iranian drones while intercepting the strike on Israel.

He called for 'calm heads to prevail' and said he wanted to 'pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of our pilots flying into the face of danger to protect civilians'.

Warplanes based in Iraq and Syria had been deployed to intercept airborne strikes after Tehran announced it had launched an assault yesterday.

The Prime Minister is expected to join other G7 leaders on a call today amid fears of further escalation in the event of a possible Israeli counter-strike.

Speaking to journalists in Downing Street, Mr Sunak said if Iran's attack on Israel been successful 'the fallout for regional stability would be hard to overstate', as he confirmed RAF pilots shot down 'a number of' drones.

And according to the New York Times, US President Joe Biden dissuaded Israel from giving the go-ahead on an immediate retaliation attack against Iran last night.

Drones or missiles vying for targets at undisclosed locations in northern Israel yesterday

Prime Minster Rishi Sunak has confirmed RAF pilots shot down 'a number' of Iranian attack drones while intercepting the attack of Israel last night 

This map shows sites around Israel which the IDF has issued protective warnings to residents

People drive along a street in Jerusalem today after Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel

People cross a street in Jerusalem today after the Israeli army said Iran's attack was 'foiled'

People gather around a destroyed building targeted by Israeli air strikes on the village of Nabi Sheet in the Baablbek district in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley on April 14, 2024

Speaking to Sky News, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said they have to look at the situation in the 'right perspective'.

He said: 'Israel has undertaken all the necessary steps to block this attack, which was a violent, flagrant violation of all the rules. 

'I am happy we are part of an incredible coalition of nations which has been part of preventing most of these missiles and weapons and drones from coming into Israel.

'Our air defence system has proven incredibly successful. It calls for special attention by all of the key figures in the world to understand there is an empire of evil and terror.

'It's about time the world faces this and makes it clear this is not acceptable. 

'We are here to protect Europe. Thank god for the Israeli military and its allies and also thanks to the British forces.'

Asked about the global warnings not to escalate, he said: 'The last thing Israel is seeking in this region is to go to war. We are seeking peace, we are peace-seekers. 

'Unfortunately it all started on the October 7 when Hamas led an unbelievably brutal massacre against Israeli citizens and the rest is history. We always listen to our partners and our allies, we respect their view.'

Israeli war cabinet Minister Benny Gantz released a statement to say that Israel must strengthen 'strategic alliance and regional cooperation' which allowed it to withstand yesterday's attack.

He said: 'Iran is a global problem, it is a regional challenge and it is also a danger to Israel, and yesterday, the world clearly stood together with Israel in the face of the danger. 

'Israel against Iran, the world against Iran...this is the result. This is a strategic achievement, which we must leverage for Israel's security.'

Seemingly indicating he doesn't support immediate retaliation, he continued: 'Faced with the threat of Iran, we will build a regional coalition and exact the price from Iran, in the way and at the time that suits us,' The Times of Israel reported.

John Kirby said the U.S. has communicated to Iran 'what we would do' if American troops or facilities are targeted amid rising conflict in the Middle East.

President Joe Biden's National Security Council (NSC) Spokesman reiterated that the U.S. does not plan to get involved with counter attacks against Iran on behalf of ally Israel – but will continue to help defend the Jewish nation.

Amid Israel's ongoing war with Hamas terrorists in Gaza, some Republican lawmakers are not pleased with the Biden administration response so far with the escalating conflict and want a direct response to the attacks last night from Iran and its proxies.

'The president has made it clear: We do not seek a war with Iran. We don't seek a wider war in the region,' Kirby told NBC host Kristen Welker Sunday morning.

It has been announced that the EU foreign ministers will meet on Tuesday after Iran's attack on Israel after the EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called for it to try and de-escalate the situation.

It comes after Israel today levelled a building in east Lebanon and vowed a response to Iran's 300-missile attack - as the Middle East holds its breath amid fears of World War III. 

A source within Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group said Israel struck one of its buildings close to the Syrian border today, as tensions soared after Iran directly attacked Israel.

Smoke billows over the area of an Israeli air strike on the southern Lebanese village of Kfar Kila near the border with Israel on April 14, 2024

A bus, motorcycles, and other vehicles move across a pedestrian intersection along a street in Tehran today following the attack on Israel yesterday

People relax at a beach in Tel Aviv, after Iran's drone and missile attack on Israel overnight

Hundreds of cruise missiles and UAVs sent by Iran overnight were mostly intercepted and destroyed by Israel's Defence System. Pictured are beachgoers in Tel Aviv, Israel, today

The source told news agency AFP: 'The Israeli strike targeted an area... near Baalbek and targeted a two-storey building belonging to Hezbollah,' adding that there were no casualties reported.

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency also reported that 'an enemy air strike targeted a building' in the village of Nabi Sheet and 'destroyed it'.

The IDF later confirmed the strike on the 'significant weapons manufacturing site' in the Nabi Sheet area.

Reports in Israel suggested RAF and US warplanes had shot down some Israel-bound Iranian drones over the Iraq-Syria border area amid the attack. But Victoria Atkins said earlier she is 'not in a position to confirm or deny' whether British jets have already shot down Iranian drones.

However, Mr Sunak has now confirmed RAF pilots shot down 'a number' of Iranian attack drones.

He added that 'the fallout for regional stability would be hard to overstate' had Iran's attack on Israel been successful'.

He said of Iran's attack on Israel: 'This was a dangerous and unnecessary attack.

'It's clear that Iran is determined to sew discord' in the region 'in their own back yard', he said.

The Prime Minister said he had chaired a Cobra meeting with Cabinet ministers on Friday to 'agree a plan of action' regarding the attack.

A source within Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group said Israel struck a building in the village of Nabi Sheet in the Baablbek district in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley today

A destroyed building targeted by Israeli air strikes on the village of Nabi Sheet in Baablbek

Last night, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles were said to have been fired from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen in what is said to be an attempt to 'overwhelm' defences with various weapons from different directions. Israeli sources said seven of 131 ballistic missiles got through.

Most seemed to have hit the Nevatim airbase in a symbolic strike - as the airbase is where the Israeli F-35s took off to hit the Damascus consulate - although Israel says the airbase only sustained minor infrastructure damage and remains operational.

The Israeli Army reported that 170 drones and 30 cruise missiles were shot down before they reached Israel.

The medical centre confirmed she is now in the hospital's paediatric intensive care unit receiving treatment for a major head wound.

Hamas has also gloated about last night's devastating attack on Israel by Iran which led to a seven-year-old girl being seriously injured - calling it a 'deserved response'.

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile defence system deployed near Jerusalem which reportedly helped intercept 99 per cent of the missiles launched

An Israeli F35 fighter jet takes off from an undisclosed location in central Israel, 14 April 2024

This morning, Hamas said in a statement: 'We in Hamas regard the military operation conducted by the Islamic Republic of Iran a natural right and a deserved response on the crime of targeting the Iranian consulate in Damascus and the assassination of several leaders of the Revolutionary Guards,' The Times of Israel reports.

Iran today warned Israel of a larger attack if it retaliates against the overnight drone and missile assault - adding that it has warned the US not to back Israeli military action. It said any 'reckless' Israeli move will prompt 'stronger response'.

'The matter can be deemed concluded,' Iran's mission to the United Nations said in a post on social media platform X just a few hours after the start of the operation late Saturday.

'However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran's response will be considerably more severe,' the Iranian mission warned.

NATO has joined calls for 'restraint' - as it condemned the Iran attack as an 'escalation'.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock today said that Iran has taken the Middle East to the 'edge of a precipice' with its overnight attack on Israel.

She said Tehran had 'plunged an entire region into chaos' and asked all sides to show restraint, adding that the spiralling tensions needed to end.

But Israel's chief military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, called Iran's actions 'very grave', telling a televised briefing they 'push the region toward escalation', and Israel's Channel 12 TV cited an unnamed Israeli official as saying there would be a 'significant response' to the attack.

Speaking to Sky News, spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner said the IDF is 'poised and prepared' and it will be decided whether Israel will retaliate in a meeting later today. He said it is 'extremely tense' and its aerial defences remain on 'high alert'.

The Israeli war cabinet will meet at 1.30pm, it has been reported.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock today said that Iran has taken the Middle East to the 'edge of a precipice' with its overnight attack on Israel

Head of the Israeli military, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi (L), attending a meeting at the Israeli Air Force Operations Center in Kirya in Tel Aviv with the commanding officers of the Israeli Air Force, the operations directorate and the intelligence directorate today

The remains of a rocket booster that, according to Israel, critically injured a seven-year-old girl

Residents transfer the remains of a rocket booster that reportedly injured a seven-year-old girl

After Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel, near Arad, this is the remains of a rocket booster which reportedly injured a seven-year-old child

Pope Francis has today made a 'pressing appeal' against the 'spiral of violence'

Italy's Prime Minister posted on X to condemn the Iranian strike against Israel

The attack which began late yesterday marks a major escalation of the long-running covert war between the regional foes, and comes against the backdrop of the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Iran's proxies and allies also carried out coordinated attacks on Israeli positions as sirens sounded in many places and with blasts heard in the skies above Jerusalem early Sunday.

Iran had repeatedly threatened to retaliate against Israel for a deadly April 1 air strike on its Damascus consular building, and Washington had warned in recent days that the reprisals were imminent.

Late yesterday, the Israeli army said Iran had launched a 'massive swarm of over 200 killer drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles'.

The army said it had scrambled dozens of fighter jets to intercept 'all aerial threats', and was working with the US and other allies to stop the launches.

People in Jerusalem sought cover, while some residents stockpiled water.

'As you can see it's empty, everybody is running home,' said Eliyahu Barakat, a 49-year-old grocery shop owner in Jerusalem's Mamilla neighbourhood.

Earlier today, the Israeli army said that 99 percent of the launches had been intercepted.

None of the drones and cruise missiles that were launched towards Israel had entered its territory, Hagari said, and 'only a few' ballistic missiles reached Israel. 

'The Iranian attack was foiled,' military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement.

US President Joe Biden reiterated Washington's 'ironclad' support for Israel after an urgent meeting with his top security officials on the spiralling crisis. 

Leaders from the G7 will hold a video conference later today to discuss the Iranian strikes on Israel, according to Italy - which holds the rotating presidency of the group of developed nations.

Today, Pope Francis made a 'pressing appeal' against a 'spiral of violence' after Iran's unprecedented missile and drone attack on Israel, warning of a potential regional conflagration.

'I make an urgent appeal for an end to any action which could fuel a spiral of violence that risks dragging the Middle East into an even greater conflict,' he declared following his traditional Sunday prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.

Israeli warships patrol off the coast of the Israeli coastal city of Netanya, today

Israeli warships patrol off the coast of Netanya today, following yesterday's strike 

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant (2nd R) attends the Israel's war cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (not seen), held to discuss the drone attack

United States President Joe Biden meets with members of the National Security Council regarding the unfolding missile attacks on Israel

An Iranian man is holding a scale model of a cannon shell during a celebration in support of Iran's attack against Israel yesterday

Read my statement on the Iranian regime’s reckless attack against Israel. pic.twitter.com/xeuR3cd3kG

— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) April 13, 2024

'The Italian presidency of the G7 has summoned G7 leaders for a video conference early this afternoon', the government said. The G7 groups the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Britain, Italy and Canada.

Rishi Sunak is expected to join President Joe Biden on the call on Sunday amid fears of further escalation in the event of a possible Israeli counter-strike. 

Mohammed, the father of the schoolgirl who was injured in the attack, told The Times of Israel how the shrapnel fell on their house while they were sleeping.

He told the news site: 'It fell on us into the house at around two in the morning. She was sleeping in the house and we immediately took her to Soroka Hospital [in Beersheba].'

Iran launched more missiles and drones toward Israel in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The Israeli military said Iran fired more than 100 bomb-carrying drones toward Israel.

Israel's airspace reopened today at 7:30 am (0430 GMT) after it was closed following Iran's attack on Israel, the Israeli airports authority said in a statement.

'As of 07:30 in the morning, Israel's airspace is reopening and Ben Gurion Airport is returning to operations', the statement said, adding that domestic airports would reopen throughout the day.

The airspace had been closed since 12:30 am (2130 GMT on Saturday).

Rocket trails in the sky above the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem last night

Empty beaches in the Israeli coastal city of Netanya, on April 14, 2024

Pictures posted by the IDF show Israeli pilots returning to base after intercepting missiles

The Israeli military said that Iran's attack using hundreds of drones and missiles had been 'foiled', with 99 percent of them intercepted overnight. Pictured are pilots returning to base

Early Sunday, the Israeli army said that 99 percent of the launches had been intercepted

Pilots are seen returning to base after intercepting the missiles and drones yesterday

A view shows an 'Adir' fighter jet at a location given as the Nevatim Airbase, in Israel

One of them 'lightly hit the Nevatim base', he added, noting that the military compound was 'still functioning'.

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said in a statement: 'Together with the United States and additional partners, we managed to defend the territory of the State of Israel.'

'The campaign is not over yet - we must remain alert', Gallant added.

The Iranian army has said its attack 'achieved all its objectives'. 

Mohammad Bagheri, the Iranian armed forces' chief of staff, told state TV: 'Operation Honest Promise was completed successfully from last night to this morning and achieved all its objectives.'

Iran has said it had attacked Israel in 'self-defence' following the April 1 strike on its diplomatic mission in Damascus, which was widely blamed on Israel.

The Damascus strike levelled the five-storey consular annexe of the Iranian embassy in the Syrian capital and killed seven Revolutionary Guards, two of them generals.

Bagheri said the retaliatory attack targeted an 'intelligence centre' and the air base from which Tehran says the Israeli F-35 jets took off to strike the Damascus consulate.

'Both these centres were significantly destroyed and put out of order,' he said, though Israel maintains that the attack only resulted in minor damage.

'We see this operation as complete, and this operation has ended in our opinion,' Bagheri said.

'There is no intention to continue this operation,' he said, calling on Israel to avoid taking further action against Iran which according to Bagheri would result in a 'much bigger' response.

The army chief also warned the United States against aiding any Israeli action against Iran.

Reports in Israel suggested RAF and US warplanes had shot down some Israel-bound Iranian drones over the Iraq-Syria border area amid the attack. But Victoria Atkins has said she is 'not in a position to confirm or deny' whether British jets have already shot down Iranian drones

Crews work on an Israeli Air Force F-15 Eagle in a hangar, said to be following an interception mission of an Iranian drone and missile attack on Israel

Israel's chief military spokesman delivered a televised address to the nation after Iran's first-ever direct attack on Israel came to an end

'We sent a message to America through the Swiss embassy that if it cooperates with Israel in their next potential actions, their bases will not be secure,' he added.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps chief, Hossein Salami, hailed what he called 'a limited operation' that targeted Israeli 'capabilities that were used to attack our embassy'.

Salami added it was 'more successful than expected'.

He reiterated warnings of a 'counterattack' if Israel targeted Iranian interests or individuals.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said via state media yesterday: 'The aerospace unit of the Revolutionary Guards has attacked targets in Israel with dozens of drones and missiles in reaction to the Zionist regime's crimes, including the attack on the consulate section of Iran's embassy in Damascus and martyring our commanders and military advisers in Syria.'

Missiles which began to enter Israeli airspace were seen in video shared with MailOnline, showing them being intercepted by the Iron Dome system above Jerusalem, forcing citizens to run to shelters across the city. 

Iran claimed to have dealt 'heavy blows' to an airbase in Negev, though the IDF said only minor damage was caused. The IDF added that the vast majority of the missiles and drones were shot down, with one small girl being injured by falling shrapnel. 

Iranian media reported that while Tehran's barrage of ballistic missiles has concluded, the drones and cruise missiles are yet to enter Israeli airspace. Iran has vowed to take further 'defensive measures' if Israel chooses to respond to the salvo. 

Yemen-based Houthis have also claimed to have shot 'dozens' of rockets towards an IDF base in the north-east of Israel. it is not currently known if the Houthi attacks are linked to Iran's salvo.

The UK, among Israel's closest allies, and other nations reportedly supported Israel by sending fighter jets to shoot down the drones and missiles. US officials added that their military also intercepted drones and missiles heading to Israel. 

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned 'in the strongest terms' Iran's 'reckless attack' as he pledged to 'continue to stand up for Israel's security and that of all our regional partners', while US President Joe Biden said he would convene a meeting of G7 leaders on Sunday 'to co-ordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran's brazen attack'.

Today, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey condemned the Iranian attack but backed calls to avoid further conflict.

He said it is a 'dangerous escalation'  in a conflict which has caused 'far too much death and suffering' and called for an end to the 'horrifying cycle of violence'.

Victoria Atkins said the 'circle of knowledge' on the conflict in the Middle East has to be 'very, very tight', when asked whether the Cabinet was consulted before RAF planes were deployed to protect Israel.

Speaking to the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, the Health Secretary said: 'Of course there are relevant Cabinet ministers in that (Cobra) meeting.

'You will appreciate the circle of knowledge on this has to be very, very tight because of the sensitivities and the danger that is involved for everyone in the region.'

Asked whether the Government would proscribe the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, she said: 'We keep all of these issues under constant review.'

Ms Atkins said she is 'not in a position to confirm or deny' whether British jets have already shot down Iranian drones.

Labour has backed the UK Government action taken overnight to help protect Israel.

Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: 'Let's be clear, we support the existing Government missions in the Middle East and continue to do so.

'That is important. We also think that it is important that action was taken overnight to prevent the Iranian strikes on Israel because we should be clear that if action hadn't been taken to prevent those strikes, we would have seen further escalation and further risk of widening conflict.'

Missiles which began to enter Israeli airspace were seen in video shared with MailOnline

Iran has said it had attacked Israel in 'self-defence' following the April 1 strike on its diplomatic mission in Damascus, which was widely blamed on Israel. Pictured are missiles yesterday

Warplanes in Iraq and Syria have been deployed to intercept 'any airborne attacks within range of our existing missions', the Ministry of Defence said. 

The Times of Israel reported that Israel's chief military spokesperson said France was among the countries involved in defending against Iran's overnight attack on Israel.

The news outlet added that The IDF's spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said France was 'contributing in patrolling airspace' but he didn't know if their jets had shot down any of the missiles.

Israeli officials said that the United States, Britain, and Jordan also all helped intercept the massive barrage of drones Iran fired at Israel overnight, according to The Times of Israel.

Jordan, which lies between Iran and Israel, had readied air defences and said it intercepted flying objects that entered its airspace last night. It added that some shrapnel fell in 'multiple places' but didn't cause significant damage or injures to citizens.

Iran today warned Israel of a larger attack if it retaliates against the overnight drone and missile assault - adding that it has warned the US not to back Israeli military action.

The armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri told state TV their response will be 'much larger than tonight's military action if Israel retaliates', The Times of Israel reports.

President Isaac Herzog wrote on X to express his gratitude to the military and to Israel's allies. 

He posted: 'Bless you dear soldiers and commanders of the IDF and IAF. Bless the coalition of nations led by the US and @POTUS.

'Bless my sisters and brothers, the people of Israel, for their exceptional show of resilience. Together, the forces of good will overcome the forces of evil.'

• Britain has sent jets to support Israel as it is attacked by Iran 
• The US is sending a naval task force with over 2,500 marines
• But many of Iran's Middle East allies, including Qatar and Kuwait,  are rallying around it 

Around a hundred drones and missiles were fired at Israel yesterday

People wave Iranian and Palestinian flags during an anti-Israel rally after Iran launched drone attacks against Israel at Palestine Square in Tehran, Iran

One video shared with MailOnline showed the Iron Dome intercepting a missile yesterday

Iranians were seen celebrating as news of the attack broke yesterday

Iranians celebrate on a street, after the IRGC attack on Israel, in Tehran, Iran yesterday

Israel's cabinet is currently meeting to discuss how to deal with the attack from Iran

The IDF's spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said that the Iranian attack was 'a severe and dangerous escalation' in tensions, adding: 'Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest level of readiness ahead of this large-scale attack from Iran.'

The IDF said: 'The air defence array is on high alert at the same time as the Air Force planes and Navy ships that are on a mission to protect the country's skies. The IDF is monitoring all targets.

'We ask the public to adhere to and follow the instructions of the Home Front Command and the official IDF announcements regarding the matter.'

Israel's allies sent in military assets in to help Israel. 

US Congressional sources said the amphibious war ship Bataan is leading a US naval task force in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Bataan has two support ships and together they have about 2,500 Marines onboard. The US also has several guided missile destroyers including the Carney in the area.

US bases in Iraq were placed on full alert and attempted to shoot down missiles and drones aimed at Israel. In addition, the US has two destroyers and a Cruiser in the Red Sea that are fully armed with anti-missile weapons and they too were under orders to shoot down any Israeli bound missiles or drones.

But Iran has threatened the US if it gets involved in the spat, claiming that it is a conflict between Iran and Israel alone. 

Iran's mission to the UN wrote on X: 'Conducted on the strength of Article 51 of the UN Charter pertaining to legitimate defense, Iran's military action was in response to the Zionist regime's aggression against our diplomatic premises in Damascus. 

'The matter can be deemed concluded. However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran's response will be considerably more severe. It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!'

Iran's foreign ministry, meanwhile, said in statement to local media: 'Iran, if necessary, will not hesitate to take further defensive measures to safeguard its legitimate interests against any military aggressions and unlawful use of force while reaffirming its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.'

Israel is expected to launch a counterattack against Iran. Former IDF captain Caroline Glick told MailOnline: '[Iran's] overthrow is the key to the restoration of regional stability. Just last week, when a regime authority called for a moment of silence in memory of the Iranian terror masters Israel killed in Damascus two weeks ago, the crowd instead began calling for the overthrow of the regime.' 

Objects are seen in the sky above Jerusalem after Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel yesterday

Missiles entering Israeli airspace, with images from international media revealing missiles being intercepted by the Iron Dome system above Jerusalem yesterday

Iranian media reported Tehran has also launched ballistic missiles towards Israel yesterday

The salvo of missiles and drones entering Israel airspace yesterday

The night sky above Jerusalem was lit up by missiles yesterday

Inside Iran, many were seen joyously celebrating as news of the attack broke. 

Iranians were seen taking to the streets of Tehran with flares and Iranian flags, whooping and cheering as the missiles and drones entered Israeli airspace.  

Surrounding countries appeared to prepare for an escalation in hostilities. 

Iraq reopened its airspace on Sunday hours after suspending all air traffic as neighbouring Iran launched an unprecedented drone and missile attack on Israel, the Iraqi aviation authority announced.

Jordan, which neighbours Iraq as well as Israel, and Lebanon also reopened their respective airspace on Sunday having earlier closed them, as did Israel which said the Iranian attack had been 'foiled' with most launches intercepted overnight.

The Iraqi civil aviation authority announced in a statement 'the reopening of the airspace' and resumption of flights to and from airports across the country, saying there were no longer any 'security risks to civilian aircraft'.

Kurdish media in northern Iraq reported that Iranian drones had flown over the autonomous Kurdish region overnight.

Israel, which had closed its airspace since 12:30 am (2130 GMT on Saturday) in anticipation of the Iranian attack, had reopened it by 7:30 am (0430 GMT), the Israeli airports authority said.

However, Austrian Airlines said on Sunday it had suspended 'all flights to Tel Aviv in Israel, Arbil in Iraq and Amman in Jordan with immediate effect' due to 'recent developments in the Middle East'.

'There will be no flights to or from Tel Aviv, Arbil and Amman' until Monday, spokeswoman Sophie Matkovits said, adding that 'the safety of personnel and passengers' was the company's top priority.

The airline also said a previously announced suspension of flights to Tehran in Iran would remain in effect until Thursday.

Long-haul flights passing through the Middle East will also be rerouted, it said.

Several international airlines have suspended or redirected flights in recent days to avoid Iranian airspace.

Syria is also on high alert, setting up its ground-to-air defence systems around the capital Damascus and major bases in the event of an Israeli strike, army sources said. 

Sources told Reuters they expected Israel would retaliate against army bases and installations where pro-Iranian militia were based after Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards said they launched dozens of drones and missiles against specific targets in Israel.

Qatar and Kuwait have both issued directives against the US prohibiting the use of their airspace for any potential military action against Iran. 

People holding Iranian flags gather to stage a demonstration in support of Iran's attack on Israel in Tehran yesterday

The IRGC has promised for increased violence if Israel responds to the attack 

Iranians celebrate on a street, after the IRGC attack on Israel, in Tehran

US military aircraft are stationed at the Ali Al Salem Air Base and the Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base in Kuwait, as well as the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US airbase in the Middle East. 

But Egypt's foreign ministry urged both sides to exercise restraint, saying in a statement: 'Egypt expresses its deep concern about the indicators of Iranian/Israeli escalation and demands the exercise of the utmost restraint

'The Arab Republic of Egypt expresses its deep concern regarding the announced launch of Iranian offensive marches against Israel, and the indicators of dangerous escalation between the two countries during the recent period, calling for the exercise of the utmost restraint to spare the region.

'And its people are more factors for instability and tension.

'Egypt considers that the dangerous escalation that the Iranian/Israeli arena is currently witnessing is nothing but a direct result of what Egypt has repeatedly warned about, about the dangers of expanding the conflict in the region as a result of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip, and the provocative military actions being practiced in the region.

'Egypt stresses that it is in constant contact with all concerned parties to try to contain the situation, stop the escalation, and spare the region the risk of sliding into a dangerous turn of instability and threat to the interests of its people.'

הכי יפה עד עכשיו. pic.twitter.com/rBJoVTqjo8

— نير حسون Nir Hasson ניר חסון (@nirhasson) April 13, 2024

Demonstrators wave Iran's flag and Palestinian flags as they gather at Palestine Square in Tehran on April 14, 2024

Iranians were seen celebrating as the missiles and drones began to hit Israel 

The rest of the world has begun to react to Iran's strikes. 

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement: 'I condemn in the strongest terms the Iranian regime's reckless attack against Israel. These strikes risk inflaming tensions and destabilising the region. Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on sowing chaos in its own backyard.

'The UK will continue to stand up for Israel's security and that of all our regional partners, including Jordan and Iraq.

'Alongside our allies, we are urgently working to stabilise the situation and prevent further escalation. No one wants to see more bloodshed.'

The UK's Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron took to X to say: 'Iran's reckless attacks on Israel will only further inflame tensions in the Middle East. The UK calls on the Iranian regime to stop this serious escalation, which is in no one's interest.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the party supported all measures 'designed to restore calm' and prevent a wider regional war.

In a statement, he said: 'We condemn the Iranian regime's decision to subject Israelis to these unacceptable attacks.

'The international community has been united in urging restraint and we regret that yet again Iran has chosen a different, dangerous path.

'Our thoughts are with all those in the region who want peace and security, not the fear and instability being generated by Iran.

'We continue to stand up for Israel's security and that of our other partners in the region, including Jordan and Iraq. We support all measures designed to restore calm as we must do all we can to prevent a wider regional war.'

A battery of Israel's Iron Dome defense missile system, deployed to intercept rockets, sits in Ashkelon

Grant Shapps, the UK's defence minister added: 'I strongly condemn the senseless airborne attack that Iran has launched on Israel. It serves no benefit other than to further undermine regional security. 

'We continue to work with Israel and partners in the region to prevent further escalation. Peace and stability are in everyone's interest, and I urge Iran to immediately end all forms of destabilising behaviour. 

'In response to escalation in the region and in partnership with our allies, the Prime Minister and I have authorised the deployment of additional Royal Air Force assets. 

'The RAF jets and air refuelling tankers will bolster our existing Operation Shader - the UK's existing counter-Daesh operation in Iraq and Syria. In addition, these jets will intercept any airborne attacks within range of our existing missions, as required.'

In a late-night statement on Saturday, the MoD said: 'In response to increased Iranian threats and the growing risk of escalation in the Middle East, the UK Government has been working with partners across the region to encourage de-escalation and prevent further attacks.

'We have moved several additional Royal Air Force jets and air refuelling tankers to the region.'

Tehran had been threatening to attack since an air strike, which it blamed on Israel, last week killed two Iranian generals in Syria.

A spokesperson for the US' National Security Council, meanwhile, said: 'President Biden has been clear: Our support for Israel's security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defence against these threats from Iran.'

US president Joe Biden said: 'I just met with my national security team for an update on Iran's attacks against Israel. Our commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad.'

Mr Biden said the US had helped Israel to 'take down nearly all' of the drones and missiles.

He said: 'I told him that Israel demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks - sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel.

'While we have not seen attacks on our forces or facilities today, we will remain vigilant to all threats and will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect our people.'

Former president Donald Trump took to his own social media platform, Truth Social, to say: 'ISRAEL IS UNDER ATTACK! This should never have been allowed to happen – This would NEVER have happened if I were President!

'AMERICA SUPPORTS ISRAEL!'

Inside Iran, many were seen joyously celebrating as news of the attack broke

Iranians were seen taking to the streets of Tehran with flares and Iranian flags, whooping and cheering as the missiles and drones entered Israeli airspace yesterday

Many lit up flares and sparklers in celebration of the attack yesterday

France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Stéphane Séjourné said via X: 'France condemns in the strongest terms the attack launched by Iran against Israel. By deciding on such an unprecedented action, Iran is taking a new step in its destabilizing actions and taking the risk of a military escalation.

'France reaffirms its attachment to Israel's security and assures it of its solidarity.'

Germany's foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, said on X: 'Iran has fired drones and missiles at Israel. We strongly condemn the ongoing attack, which could plunge an entire region into chaos. Iran and its proxies must stop this immediately. Israel offers our full solidarity at this time.'

The UN has also weighed in, with secretary general Antonio Guterres condemning Iran's attack on Israel and calling for restraint and an immediate cessation of hostilities.

'I am deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation. I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid any action that could lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East,'

It was reported yesterday that Iran has more than 100 cruise missiles ready to be launched as part of an 'imminent' strike against Israel in retaliation for an airstrike against Iran's embassy in Damascus, Syria.

Announcing increased security measures in Israel during a televised briefing, chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said dozens of combat planes were airborne as part of the state of readiness. 

The strict measures, which include the ban of all 'educational activities' across the country, the restriction of working in offices without 'standard protected spaces' and limits on the number of people at gatherings', were implemented from 11pm.

Educational activities have been banned across the country, while restrictions on working have been put in place on areas directly next to the Gaza Strip, and other areas in the Gaza Envelope. 

Israelis living on the areas next to the Gaza Strip have been banned from meeting outside in groups of more than 30, and are allowed to meet up to 300 people inside buildings. Beaches in the Gaza Envelope have also been closed to the public. 

Hagari said in the televised address that the directive will be reassessed at 6am local time, and urged Israelis to remain vigilant and to head to bomb shelters if they hear warnings.

The long-range air defence system called Arman is displayed during an unveiling ceremony in Tehran, Iran

A missile is launched during a military exercise in an undisclosed location in the south of Iran, in this handout image obtained on January 19, 2024

'We are taking all steps possible to ensure your safety. 

'Since the start of the war, we have faced a variety of threats sent here by Iran's proxies and adapted our defence and attack systems accordingly,' Hagari said, adding that the IDF was 'fully prepared' for Iranian attacks. 

'The air force's defence and attack formations are on alert and dozens of planes are in the sky. We are conducting a situational assessment with our strategic partners, led by the USA, and we are maintaining close coordination with them,' he added.

Hagari's televised message came as Israel's defence minister Yoav Gallant held a meeting with top-level defence officials, including the IDF's chief Herzi Halevi. 

Gallant said the IDF was 'closely monitoring a planned attack by Iran and its proxies against the State of Israel.'

'We have added new capabilities - on land, in the air, at sea, in our intelligence directorate, within the State of Israel, and together with our partners, led by the United States.

'Iran is a terrorist state - the world is seeing this now more than ever.'

Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, in central Israel, November 5, 2023

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Lebanon towards Israel over the Israeli Lebanese border, as seen from northern Israel, April 12, 2024

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a prepared televised statement: 'Our defence systems are deployed, and we are prepared for any scenario, both in defence and offence. The State of Israel is strong, the IDF is strong, the public is strong.'

'We appreciate the US for standing by Israel's side as well as the support of the UK, France and many other countries.'

'I established a clear principle — whoever hurts us, we will hurt them. We will defend ourselves from any threat and we will do so calmly and with determination.'

'I know that you, the citizens of Israel, are also keeping calm. I urge you to listen to the directives of the Home Front Command.'

'Together we stand, and with God's help, together we will overcome all of our enemies.'

The increased security measures were announced hours after Iranian commandos took control of an Israel-linked container ship as it travelled in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important shipping chokepoints. 

Tensions between Iran and Israel have been massively escalating after the IDF killed 12 people, including two top military figures, in an airstrike against Iran's embassy in Syria's capital, Damascus, on April 1. 

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