Iran Launches Retaliatory Attack on Israel; ‘Zionist Regime Will Be Punished,’ Says Khamenei

Update

3:00 PM PST

Citizens in Lebanon celebrate Iran's attack on Israel.

Iranian drones have been launched towards Israel, announced Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagari in a statement, fulfilling a threat made by Tehran following the recent attack on its embassy in Damascus, Syria.

The escalation comes after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, vowed retaliation against Israel during a prayer ceremony commemorating the end of Ramadan. Khamenei's remarks were broadcast on Iranian state television, where he condemned Israel's actions and promised punishment.

“The malicious regime itself which is all malice, evil and error added another mistake to its own errors by launching an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria. The consul and embassy offices in any country where they exist are regarded as the soil of the country to which the embassy belongs. Attacking our consulate is like attacking our soil. This is what is common around the world. The malicious [Zionist] regime has made the wrong move in this case. It should be punished and it will be punished,” said Khamenei in a public speech.

In response to Khamenei's threats, Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned of retaliation against Iran if it launched attacks from within its territory.

In response, Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu gave a speech to his citizens as well. “Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively. The State of Israel is strong. The IDF is strong. The public is strong,” said PM Netanyahu.

According to Hagari, the Iranian unmanned aircraft were launched from Iranian territory and are expected to reach Israeli airspace in several hours. The IDF has activated its prepared plan to counter the threat, with the Israeli Air Force and Aerial Defense Array on high alert.

Hagari urged Israeli citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety directives. Should an alert be activated, citizens are advised to seek shelter in protected areas for at least 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in anticipation of potential further attacks, the U.S. is preparing for what officials describe as a major assault from Iran. The administration expects Iran to launch drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles targeting Israeli government sites.

U.S. Central Command Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla has been in Israel coordinating defense plans with Israeli officials. The U.S. stands ready to assist Israel in defending against the anticipated attack, though officials do not expect Iran to target any U.S. assets in the region.