According to U.S. officials, Iran launched an extensive missile attack against Israel, firing approximately 200 long-range ballistic missiles that targeted several air force bases across central and southern Israel. Notably, one base sustained multiple direct impacts, resulting in minor damage. Additionally, the headquarters of Israel’s foreign intelligence service, Mossad, located north of Tel Aviv, was also targeted by several missiles; however, it reportedly suffered no direct hits.
The missile offensive, which occurred on the night of October 1, 2024, was described as a significant escalation in hostilities between Iran and Israel. The attack was purportedly in retaliation for recent Israeli military actions that resulted in the deaths of key figures from Hezbollah and Hamas.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that while many missiles were intercepted by advanced defense systems such as the Iron Dome and Arrow, some managed to penetrate these defenses, leading to minor damage at targeted installations.
A missile struck near the Mossad headquarters, creating a large crater in a nearby parking lot but causing no casualties or significant damage to the facility itself. Video footage captured from a high-rise building in Herzliya showed the aftermath of this strike.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, labeling it a “big mistake” on Iran’s part and warned that Iran would “pay” for its aggression.
In contrast, Iranian officials have framed their missile strikes as necessary defensive actions aimed at protecting Iranian interests and responding to perceived threats from Israel.
The U.S. has also reacted strongly to the missile strikes. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan characterized the attack as a “significant escalation” and reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel’s right to defend itself. The Pentagon confirmed that U.S. forces assisted in intercepting incoming missiles during the attack.
