Jerusalem:
Iran today fired armed drones and missiles at Israel, marking a new volatile phase of the conflict in the Middle East. The strike, in retaliation for an attack in Syria that killed top Iranian officers, was the first time Iran has struck Israel from its territory.
In a statement, Iran said the attack was carried out in self-defense against the “aggression” of the Israeli army. It said the action was a “legitimate” defensive response to the attack in Damascus – which Israel has not acknowledged carried out – and suggested it was a warning. It also warned the US to stay away from the conflict.
“On April 14, 2024, the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran carried out a series of military attacks on Israel's military bases in response to and in exercise of its inherent right to self-defense, as recognized in Article 51 of the Charter, against the returning military aggression by Israel, resulting in the martyrdom of Iranian military advisors present in Syria,” the Iranian Mission to the United Nations said in its statement.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, while reiterating its determination to vigorously defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests against any unlawful use of force and aggression.” it added.
The country also reiterated that it would launch more attacks if Israel does not cease its actions.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran would not hesitate to take further necessary defensive measures to protect its legitimate interests against any act of military aggression or unlawful use of force,” Iran said.
Sirens blared and Reuters journalists in Israel said they heard heavy thuds and bangs in the distance from what local media called aerial interceptions of explosive drones. Authorities said a 7-year-old girl was seriously injured.
Israeli military spokesman Admiral Daniel Hagari said Iran launched dozens of surface-to-surface missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted outside Israel's borders. They included more than 10 cruise missiles, he said.