The United States military reported that it successfully intercepted numerous drones and missiles launched by Iran at Israel on Saturday. Other allies also expressed support for Israel and offered assistance in its defense.
Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, Israel’s chief military spokesman, stated that Israel managed to intercept most of the 200 drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched by Iran, with some help from its allies.
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III confirmed that U.S. forces intercepted a significant number of missiles and attack drones fired at Israel from Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. However, specific details about the interception were not provided by the United States.
Despite President Biden’s criticisms of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict with Hamas in Gaza, he consistently reiterated Israel’s right to self-defense. Over the past six months of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, the U.S. has countered attacks from Iran’s proxies in the region, including the Iran-backed Houthi militia in the Red Sea.
Britain’s defense secretary, Grant Shapps, announced that their jets were ready to intercept airborne threats in the Middle East. Additional British jets and air refueling tankers have been deployed to enhance operations in Iraq and Syria.
France’s foreign minister, Stéphane Séjourné, condemned Iran’s attack and expressed solidarity with Israel. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz denounced the attacks as “unjustifiable and highly irresponsible,” affirming Germany’s support for Israel.
“Germany stands by Israel and will consult with our allies on the situation,” Scholz stated on social media.
Contributions to reporting by Eric Schmitt, Patrick Kingsley, and Farnaz Fassihi.
