Israel successfully defended itself against a massive attack on Saturday, with the help of powerful allies from around the world. The Israeli Defense Forces, along with support from the United States, France, Jordan, and the United Kingdom, were able to thwart more than 99% of the 300 drones and missiles launched at Israel from Iran. President Biden praised the extraordinary skill of US servicemembers and allies for their role in protecting Israel. Senior French officials confirmed that France’s ground-air defense systems intercepted several Iranian projectiles over Iraq and Jordan, while the UK’s Royal Air Force also participated in intercepting drones bound for Israel.
In addition to US support, other countries in the region stepped up to defend Israel. Jordan, for example, intercepted and shot down dozens of Iranian drones that had violated its airspace en route to Israel. The country also increased reconnaissance flights and temporarily closed its airspace as a precautionary measure. Israel itself has sophisticated air defenses in place, including the Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems. The Arrow Missile Defense System, composed of Arrow 2 and Arrow 3, is capable of intercepting missiles from up to 1,500 miles away above the earth’s atmosphere, while David’s Sling is designed to intercept various airborne threats from shorter distances.
Before the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been preparing for the possibility of a direct attack from Iran, stating that air defenses were deployed and the country was ready for any scenario. After the attack, the Israeli military carried out airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon in response, but it remained unclear what kind of response Israel might launch against Iran directly. The Biden administration reportedly advised Israel against a direct strike against Iran while affirming continued US support for the longtime ally. Biden commended Israel’s capacity to defend against and defeat an unprecedented attack, sending a clear message to its enemies that the security of Israel will not be easily threatened.
Overall, world leaders collectively condemned Iran’s reckless attack on Israel, indicating their support for Israel’s right to defend itself. The US, France, Jordan, and the UK all played important roles in intercepting the attack and supporting Israel. Israel’s Prime Minister highlighted the country’s readiness for any scenario, while Jewish organizations voiced their support for Israel’s obligation to defend itself from Iran’s attacks. The attack and subsequent defense showcased Israel’s ability to withstand and defeat significant threats, sending a strong message to its adversaries. With ongoing tensions in the region, the situation remains highly volatile, and the international community will continue to monitor developments closely to prevent further escalation of conflict.
