Hezbollah Leaders’ Assassination Triggers Iranian Missile Attack on Israel

In a severe escalation of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah and Hamas, Iran fired dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1, 2024. This attack follows weeks of heightened tensions and comes after the assassination of key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in Israeli airstrikes. Although Israel’s defense systems intercepted many of the missiles, the situation has raised serious concerns of a broader regional war. The United Stateshas vowed severe consequences in the event of further attacks, while the Israeli military remains on high alert.

The attack marks a new phase in the conflict, with both sides engaging in direct military action. President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris monitored the developments from the White House Situation Room, signaling the gravity of the situation. With growing fears of escalation, Israel has begun limited ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, and tensions are at an all-time high.

Details of the Missile Attack

• Iran’s Missile Strike: Iran fired dozens of missiles into Israel, claiming responsibility in a statement on state television. The statement referenced Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Revolutionary Guard Gen. Abbas Nilforushan, both killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut last week. It also mentioned Ismail Haniyeh, a top Hamasleader assassinated in Tehran in July. Iran warned that this attack represents only a “first wave.”
• Impact on Israeli Cities: Residents of Tel Aviv and areas near Jerusalem heard window-shaking explosions, though it was not immediately clear if the sounds were from missiles landing or being intercepted by Israeli defenses. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an Israeli Army spokesman, confirmed that Israel’s air defense system was fully operational but cautioned, “The defense is not hermetic.” Despite the strike, there were very few injuries, and the public was allowed to exit bomb shelters after the attack.
• Israeli Response: Israel responded with airstrikes and artillery fire, targeting southern Lebanese villages where Hezbollah militants are stationed. There have been no immediate reports of casualties, but the situation remains fluid as both sides continue to engage militarily.

U.S. Involvement and Warnings

• U.S. Response: The United States has been closely monitoring the situation, with President Biden and Vice-President Harris receiving regular updates. U.S. forces, including ships and aircraft, are stationed in the region, prepared to assist Israel if necessary. A White House official emphasized that the U.S. will impose “severe consequences” if Iran continues to escalate the conflict with further missile strikes.
• Warning to Iran: Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari issued a stern warning, stating that Israel will respond decisively to any further aggression from Iran. He urged the Israeli public to remain vigilant and stay close to sheltered areas, as “the Iranian strike could be widespread.”

Ground Operations and Further Escalation

• Limited Ground Operations: In response to the rising threat from Hezbollah, Israel began limited ground operations in southern Lebanon. The operations aim to neutralize Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, but they have also increased fears of a wider regional war involving multiple actors, including Iran.
• Hezbollah’s Counterattack: Hezbollah militants retaliated with a barrage of rockets into Israel, further intensifying the conflict. The exchange of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in southern Lebanoncontinues, with the risk of casualties and significant escalation.