Iran Fires 180 Missiles at Israel, Targets Mossad and F-35 Air Base: Iran Media Claims

In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles towards Israel on the night of October 2, targeting several key military and intelligence sites, according to Iranian state media. This aggressive military action reportedly aimed at Israel’s Mossad headquarters and two Israeli military bases, including the Nevatim Air Base, home to the country's F-35 fighter jets. The Iranian state media described the operation as a retaliation for the deaths of senior leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah.

The Iranian military referred to the strike as "Operation True Promise II," a significant military retaliation orchestrated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, claimed that the attack was in response to the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyah, IRGC commander Abbas Nilforoushan, and Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. These figures were reportedly killed by Israeli forces in separate incidents between July and September, prompting this large-scale counterattack.

### Targets of the Missile Strike

The Iranian media reported that the Nevatim air base, which houses Israel’s advanced F-35 fighter jets, was one of the primary targets of the missile strike. According to Tehran-based reports, these jets had been involved in an air raid on Beirut days earlier. Additionally, the Netzarim military facility and the Tel Nof intelligence unit were targeted, making it clear that Iran's strike was directed at crippling key components of Israel's defense infrastructure.

Iran's state-run television stated that the IRGC utilized its hypersonic Fatah missiles during the operation, a technologically advanced weapon system capable of evading most defense systems due to its extreme speed. These missiles are reportedly part of Iran’s growing arsenal of ballistic and hypersonic weapons designed to challenge adversaries like Israel.

Iranian Justifications and Global Reactions

Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, framed the missile attack as a defensive measure, arguing that it was necessary for safeguarding the nation's interests and promoting regional peace. Pezeshkian's statement emphasized that Iran had intentionally avoided striking civilian targets, focusing solely on military objectives. The Iranian President also stated that the operation aligned with Iran's "legitimate rights," implicitly referring to its right to retaliate against perceived aggression.

In Iran, the missile strike sparked celebrations across various cities, with citizens reportedly gathering in public spaces, waving Iranian, Lebanese, and Palestinian flags in solidarity with the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps. The atmosphere, as reported by the Irna news agency, was one of national pride and resistance against Israeli forces.

Israel's Response: "A Big Mistake"

Israel responded swiftly, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issuing a stern warning to Iran. Netanyahu described the missile attack as a "big mistake" and vowed that Tehran would face severe consequences. "The Iranian regime underestimates our determination to defend ourselves. They will pay a heavy price for this attack," he stated. Israeli defense systems, supported by U.S. forces, intercepted a significant number of the missiles, preventing most of them from reaching their intended targets.

Despite the advanced missile defense mechanisms, reports confirmed that some of the missiles did make impact, causing minimal damage. Israeli authorities noted that about 180 missiles were fired in total, though the exact details of the damage remain unclear.

U.S. Involvement and Military Reinforcements

The U.S. quickly stepped in to assist Israel, with President Joe Biden ordering the deployment of additional military assets to West Asia. According to reports from the White House situation room, several squadrons of F-16, F-15E, and A-10 attack aircraft have been dispatched to bolster Israeli defenses. One squadron had already arrived in the region by the time of the missile strikes.

The Pentagon condemned Iran's missile attack, with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin labeling the strike as an "outrageous act of aggression." U.S. Navy destroyers stationed in the Eastern Mediterranean also played a crucial role in intercepting incoming Iranian missiles, using advanced missile defense systems to protect Israeli territory. However, the exact success rate of these interceptions remains undisclosed.

Austin assured Israel that U.S. forces were prepared to continue defending against any further Iranian aggression and reiterated the strong alliance between the two nations. He also hinted at potential military responses if the conflict escalated.

A Region on Edge

The missile attack marks one of the most severe escalations in the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel. It has not only intensified the already volatile atmosphere in the Middle East but also drawn in global powers like the U.S., which is now actively involved in defending Israeli interests.

As both sides prepare for the next possible moves, the situation remains tense, with further military actions a distinct possibility. Israel's strategic response to Iran's aggression will be closely watched by international observers, particularly as the possibility of a broader conflict looms large.

Iran’s missile attack on Israeli military targets underscores the fragile and explosive nature of the region’s security situation. With Iran flexing its missile capabilities and Israel vowing retaliation, the Middle East finds itself at a dangerous crossroads. The involvement of global superpowers like the United States further complicates the geopolitical landscape, making future developments unpredictable and potentially destabilizing.