Category: News, World

Iranian Missile Attack on Israel Sparks Powerful US Response

US Intercepts Iranian Ballistic Missiles Fired at Israel

On Tuesday, the United States launched about a dozen interceptors at a barrage of Iranian ballistic missiles targeting Israel, according to the Pentagon. US President Joe Biden stated that the US provided “active” support for Israel’s defense under his direction. He mentioned spending the morning in the White House Situation Room, overseeing national security issues.

The Israeli military reported approximately 180 missiles fired from Iran, most of which were intercepted. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian justified the attack, calling it a “decisive” move in defense of Iranian interests and citizens.

US Navy Destroyers Take Action

In a Pentagon briefing, Major General Patrick Ryder explained that two US Navy destroyers fired interceptors at the missiles launched from Iran. He did not confirm whether the interceptors successfully hit the Iranian missiles, stating that further assessment was ongoing.

The barrage consisted of around 180 missiles—slightly larger than a similar attack in April when Tehran launched approximately 110 ballistic missiles and 30 cruise missiles towards Israel. General Ryder also noted that the Pentagon had no advance warning of the attack.

Biden Expresses Full Support for Israel

President Biden reiterated his support for Israel following the Iranian missile assault. “Today, at my direction, the United States military actively supported the defense of Israel, and we’re still assessing the impact,” he said. He emphasized that the attack appeared to be defeated and ineffective, praising both the Israeli and US military capabilities.

When asked about potential responses towards Iran, Biden stated, “That’s in active discussion right now. That remains to be seen.” He also mentioned plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, adding that his message would depend on the conclusions reached.

Sharp Escalation in the Middle East

The region has entered a new phase of escalation, a scenario President Biden had been working to prevent. His efforts have focused on keeping the Gaza war contained while continuing arms support for Israel. Earlier, White House national security spokesman Jake Sullivan described Iran’s missile attack as a “significant escalation.” He warned of “severe consequences” for the attack and affirmed US commitment to supporting Israel’s defense.

Sullivan did not specify the nature of these consequences but made it clear that Washington was not calling for Israeli restraint, unlike after the Iranian missile attack in April. The US State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, also confirmed that both deterrence and diplomacy were still being employed to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Iran's Justification and Warning

Iran’s armed forces issued a warning against any direct military intervention in support of Israel. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released a statement claiming that the missile attacks were a response to Israel’s assassination of a senior IRGC commander and the leaders of Iran-backed militias in the region.

The IRGC specifically cited the killings of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and IRGC commander Abbas Nilforoshan in Lebanon last weekend. Additionally, they referenced the death of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July. While Israel has not admitted involvement in Haniyeh’s death, it is widely believed to be responsible.