April 13: Iran fires 300 missiles and drones; most intercepted; minor damage at IDF base

Defense chief speaking with US counterpart regarding Iran attack

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant speaks to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on April 14, 2024. (Ariel Hermoni/Defense Ministry, File)

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is speaking to his American counterpart, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, following the Iranian attack on Israel, Gallant’s office says.

Gallant “informed the secretary of defense about Israel’s defense actions against the Iranian attack,” his office says.

The minister also thanked Austin for standing by Israel’s side, and “emphasized that the defense establishment maintains maximum readiness against further attack attempts.”

Iran strike caused slight damage to IDF military base – military spokesman

Israeli air defenses intercept Iranian launches on April 14, 2024. (Screen capture/Channel 12)

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says Iran launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel, causing slight damage to a military base.

He says most of the missiles were intercepted by the long-range Arrow air defense system. The missiles were mostly downed outside of Israeli airspace, he says.

One strike led to the injury of a young girl in the Negev, and additional impacts caused “slight damage to infrastructure” at a military base in southern Israel, Hagari says. The girl, according to medics, was hurt by shrapnel following an interception.

He says fighter jets also downed dozens of cruise missiles and dozens of drones.

In total, Iran launched more than 200 projectiles at Israel, according to Hagari.

He says the incident is not over.

UN chief ‘strongly condemns’ Iran’s attack on Israel, calls for ‘immediate cessation of these hostilities’

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres speaks during a press conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, at the foreign ministry headquarters in the Egypt's New Administrative Capital, Sunday, March 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says in a statement, “I strongly condemn the serious escalation represented by the large-scale attack launched on Israel by the Islamic Republic of Iran this evening. I call for an immediate cessation of these hostilities.”

“I am deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation. I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid any action that could lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East.”

“I have repeatedly stressed that neither the region nor the world can afford another war.”

Iran vows further ‘defensive measures’ against military aggression

Iran says it will not hesitate to take further “defensive measures” to protect its interests against any military aggression, the Iranian foreign ministry says in a statement.

“Iran, if necessary, will not hesitate to take further defensive measures to safeguard its legitimate interests against any military aggressions and unlawful use of force,” it says, according to state TV, “while reaffirming its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.”

Report: Iran fired total of 150 missiles in attack on Israel

ABC News cites a senior US official who says Iran launched a total of 150 missiles at Israel during tonight’s attack.

Egypt calls for restraint without condemning Iran for attack on Israel

File: In this photo released by the Iranian army on Oct. 3, 2023, drones are launched during the air force nationwide drone drill centered in northern Semnan province, Iran. (Iranian Army via AP)

Egypt’s foreign ministry issues a statement expressing its “deep concern” regarding Iran’s attack on Israel and urges the sides to exercise the “utmost restraint” while managing to avoid explicitly condemning Tehran.

Report: Biden, Netanyahu to speak shortly

Iran’s Guards warn US, Israel over harming Tehran’s interests

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards says any threat from the United States and Israel will be met with Tehran’s reciprocal response, state TV reports, hours after Iran launched dozens of ballistic missiles and drones against Israeli targets.

“Any threat by the United States and the Zionist regime originating from any country will result in a proportional and reciprocal response from Iran towards the origin of the threat,” the Guards says in a statement.

Likud minister: Iran attack gives Israel international legitimacy to hit back with unprecedented force

This evening’s attack against Israel gives Jerusalem the right to launch its own strong attack against Iran, states Culture Minister Miki Zohar.

“Israel received broad international legitimacy tonight to strike Iran with unprecedented force,” he says in a statement, adding that Iran’s “extremist regime has taken off its gloves” and that Israel “must not be lax against the head of the snake that is working to destroy Israel.”

‘Wake up!!!’: Israeli envoy demands UN secretary general condemn Iran

UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan, left, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, center, and Yad Vashem Chairman Dani Dayan browse the Yad Vashem Book of Names of Holocaust Victims Exhibit at United Nations headquarters, January 26, 2023. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan demands UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemn Iran over its attack on Israel tonight.

“Iran has violated the UN charter and has shown that it is a threat to global peace and security. Where is your voice?? Where is your condemnation?? Wake up!!!” Erdan tweets.

Ch. 12 quotes ‘senior Israeli official’ pledging ‘unprecedented response’ to Iran attack, urging Israelis not to go to bed

The Dome of the Rock atop the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City, with the lights of missile interceptions visible in the night sky, early on April 14, 2024, after Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israel. (Social media/X; used in accordance with Clause 27a of the Copyright Law)

Channel 12 quotes a “senior Israeli official” pledging an ‘unprecedented response’ to Iran’s attack and urging Israelis not to go to bed due to what is coming Tehran’s way.

Biden: ‘Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad’

US President Joe Biden meets with his national security team at the White House on April 13, 2024, as Iran targets Israel with missiles and drones. (White House)

US President Joe Biden tweets, “I just met with my national security team for an update on Iran’s attacks against Israel. Our commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad.”

US Embassy in Jerusalem directs all US employees to shelter in place

The US Embassy in Jerusalem has told all US government employees to shelter in place until further notice, according to a security alert posted after Iran began launching drones and missiles at Israel.

“In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the US Embassy may further restrict or prohibit US government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel (including the Old City of Jerusalem) and the West Bank,” the statement says.

US military shot down Iranian drones in southern Syria near Jordan border – security source

The US military operating from undisclosed bases in the region shot down a number of Iranian drones in Sweida and Deraa provinces in southern Syria near the Jordanian border, security sources tell Reuters.

Medics treating first injury from Iran attack – a 7-year-old girl from Bedouin town near Arad in serious condition

Israeli air defenses intercept Iranian launches on April 14, 2024. (Screenshot/Facebook)

The Magen David Adom ambulance service says its medics are treating a 7-year-old girl in southern Israel who was wounded by shrapnel following the interception of an Iranian drone over the area.

The girl, from a Bedouin town near Arad, is listed in serious condition, MDA says.

She has been taken to Soroka Hospital in Beersheba.

There are no other reports of injuries as a result of the Iranian attack.

Britain says RAF jets deployed to intercept any airborne attacks in Middle east

British Royal Air Force jets in the Middle East “will intercept any airborne attacks within range of our existing missions, as required” after Iran targeted Israel with drones and missiles, the country’s Ministry of Defense says.

“In response to increased Iranian threats and the growing risk of escalation in the Middle East, the UK Government has been working with partners across the region to encourage de-escalation and prevent further attacks,” the statement adds.

‘Senior Israeli official’ pledges ‘significant response’ to Iran

Israeli air defenses intercept Iranian launches on April 14, 2024. (Screen capture/Channel 12)

Israel plans a “significant response” to the unprecedented Iranian drone salvo against it, top-rated Channel 12 TV quotes an unnamed senior Israeli official as saying early on Sunday.

Jordanian jets shot down dozens of Iranian drones flying toward Israel, sources say

Interceptors missiles are launched into the sky, early on April 14, 2024, in Jerusalem. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick)

Jordanian jets downed dozens of Iranian drones flying across northern and central Jordan heading to Israel, two regional security sources say in a dramatic show of support from Amman, which has heavily criticized Israel’s prosecution of its war in Gaza.

The sources say the drones were brought down in the air on the Jordanian side of the Jordan Valley and were heading in the direction of Jerusalem. Others were intercepted close to the Iraqi-Syrian border. They give no further details.

EU’s Borrell calls Iran strikes on Israel an ‘unprecedented escalation’

High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell speaks to the media ahead of a Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting at the EU headquarters in Brussels, on March 18, 2024. (Kenzo TRIBOUILLARD / AFP)

The European Union’s foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell condemns Iran’s strikes on Israel as an “unprecedented escalation.”

“The EU strongly condemns the unacceptable Iranian attack against Israel,” he writes on the platform X.

“This is an unprecedented escalation and a grave threat to regional security.”

IDF says ‘numerous’ fighter jets are in the air ready to counter Iranian attack

IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari gives a press conference on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture)

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari in a new video statement says Iran has fired missiles at Israel, while “numerous” fighter jets are in the sky readying to counter Tehran’s attacks.

“A short while ago, Iran launched missiles from its territory toward the territory of the State of Israel,” Hagari says.

“I remind you that no matter where the threat is launched from, when an alarm sounds you must enter the shelter and wait there for no less than ten minutes. We will update in real-time if you are required to stay there for a longer period,” he says.

He says Israel’s air defense array is “fully operational and is intercepting threats wherever required, even at this very moment. ”

“At this time, numerous IAF planes are in the air, ready to counter any threat,” Hagari says.

“You may hear explosions from interceptions or debris falling. Since there are a variety of threats, the alerts may be issued across wide areas,” he continues.

He urges the public to “refrain from spreading unverified rumors and reports.”

“Continue to act responsibly and calmly as you have been and adhere to the instructions. We are strong and capable of handling this event,” Hagari says.

The IDF will do whatever it takes to protect the citizens of the State of Israel,” he says, adding that he will provide another update in an hour.

Fresh sirens sound across southern Israel amid ongoing Iranian attack

Fresh sirens sound in Beersheba, Dimona and other areas in the south amid an ongoing Iranian missile and drone attack on Israel.

Sirens sound across north, south, Jerusalem amid ongoing attacks

Sirens and loud booms sound across north and south, as well as in Jerusalem and many towns across the West Bank, following a mass Iranian drone and missile attack on Israel.

The Magen David Adom ambulance service says it has so far received no reports of injuries following the sirens that sounded across the country.

Sirens, boom sound in Jerusalem

Siren, booms sound in Jerusalem amid a mass Iranian drone attack.

Sirens sound across many cities in southern Israel

Sirens sound across many areas in southern Israel, including Beersheba, Dimona, Nevatim and other areas amid a mass Iranian drone and missile attack.

US officials say US shoots down Iranian drones heading for Israel

The US military has shot down Iranian drone aircraft headed toward Israel on Saturday, three US officials say, without disclosing how many drones were shot down or the precise locations.

An Israeli defense official said earlier that more than 100 drones fired by Iran toward Israel had been downed outside of Israeli airspace.

Iran’s mission to UN says its ‘military action’ against Israel is ‘concluded,’ warns US to stay out

Iran’s mission to the UN says that it views its attack on Israel as “concluded,” and warns the US to stay out of the conflict.

In a post on X, Tehran says that its “military action” came in response to Israel’s “aggression against our diplomatic premises in Damascus.”

“The matter can be deemed concluded,” the post adds. “However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe. It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!”

More than 100 Iranian drones have been intercepted by US, UK outside Israel, says defense official

A drone flies over Iraq on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture/X)

An Israeli defense official tells Army Radio that more than 100 Iranian drones have already been intercepted outside of Israeli airspace, out of hundreds fired at Israel.

The report says the drones were downed by the United States and the United Kingdom.

Earlier, the IDF said it had identified more than 100 drones heading toward Israel.

France condemns ‘unprecedented’ Iran strikes on Israel as threat to stability

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne poses with a gift in Nairobi, on April 6, 2024. (Simon Maina/AFP)

France’s Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne condemns Iran’s drone strikes on Israel as a “new level” in the threat to security.

“France condemns with the greatest firmness the attack launched by Iran against Israel,” he says on the platform X.

“In deciding to take this unprecedented action, Iran has reached a new level of destabilization and is risking a military escalation,” he adds, reiterating France’s commitment to Israel’s security.

Residents in Eilat, northern Golan Heights, Nevatim, Dimona told to remain close to bomb shelters

A public bomb shelter in the northern town of She'ar Yashuv, August 2, 2023.. (Emanuel Fabian/Times of Israel)

The IDF has instructed residents of the northern Golan Heights, the Nevatim area of southern Israel, Dimona and Eilat, to remain close to bomb shelters until further notice.

The order comes as more than 100 Iranian drones head toward Israel.

No indication that ballistic missiles were launched at Israel, say officials

Illustrative: This frame grab from video shows the launching of underground ballistic missiles by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard during a military exercise on July 29, 2020. (Sepahnews via AP)

As of now, there is no information indicating that ballistic missiles were launched from Iran at Israel, Israeli officials tell Hebrew-language media.

Earlier, a source told Iran’s state news agency that Tehran had launched its first wave of ballistic missiles against Israel. Such missiles should take around 11-12 minutes to reach Israel, according to security sources, and the claim was made more than half an hour ago.

Houthi rebels fire drones toward Israel from Yemen, says security agency

Illustrative: A Houthi supporter holds a mock missile during a Jerusalem Day protest in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, in Sanaa, Yemen, April 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Osamah Abdulrahman)

Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched multiple drones at Israel in coordination with Iran, security firm Ambrey says, adding that the projectiles were likely timed to reach Israel simultaneously.

“Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVS) were reportedly launched by the Houthis toward Israel. The UAVs were launched in coordination with Iran,” the company says. “Israeli ports are assessed to be potential targets,” it adds, and warns of “collateral damage” to shipping.

Egyptian air defense on high alert, military sources say

A view of the skyline of Cairo from the promontory of the Cairo Citadel on February 19, 2024. (Amir Makar/AFP)

Egypt’s air defense is on alert, Egyptian military and security sources say, amid fears of an Iranian drone attack aimed toward Israel.

Egypt’s military General Command has formed a team to monitor the situation and make any necessary decisions regarding the country’s airspace, the sources say.

Hezbollah says it fired dozens of rockets at Israel from Lebanon

Illustrative - The Iron Dome air defense system intercepts rockets fired from Lebanon, as seen over the Hula Valley, April 12, 2024. (Ayal Margolin/Flash90)

The Hezbollah terror group claims to have fired dozens of rockets from Lebanon at an Israeli army base in the Golan Heights a short while ago.

The attack set off sirens in the northern community of Snir.

The IDF says there are no reports of damage or injuries, as the rockets struck open areas.

Jordan denies that it issued a state of emergency amid Iranian attack on Israel

Jordan’s government spokesperson denies the kingdom announced a state of emergency, and says media reports it did were baseless and “there was no cause for concern among its citizens.”

Jordanian Minister of Government Communications Muhannad Mubaideen tells state news agency Petra the government would take legal measures against any outlet that spreads rumors or accusations that are not verified.

Home Front Command chief urges citizens to ‘vigilantly adhere’ to guidelines

Residents of Sderot emerge from the public bomb shelter in between missile strikes, May 10, 2023. (Tsafrir Abayov/AP)

As more than 100 Iranian drones head toward Israel, the chief of the IDF Home Front Command issues a video statement stressing that civilians should continue to follow its guidelines.

“We have been at war on several fronts for over six months,” says Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo.

“Throughout the war, we have faced and have confronted a large number of challenges in a very wide variety of threats, we learned and improved. We are prepared and strong in both defense and offense,” he says.

“In light of the situational assessment, we have decided to change the defensive guidelines. Starting tomorrow, throughout the country, there will be no educational activity. Also, gatherings of over 1,000 people are prohibited,” Milo continues.

“You are required to continue to vigilantly adhere to the guidelines, they may change based on the situational assessment. So far, your conduct and adherence to the guidelines has been exceptional, keep it up, it saves lives,” he says.

“The alert system is prepared and ready, together with the heads of the authorities and the emergency response organizations, we will overcome this challenge,” Milo adds.

Iranian opposition figures condemn attack on Israel, call for uprising

Reza Pahlavi attends the official Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem on April 17, 2023. (Menahem Kahana/AFP)

Prominent Iranian opposition figures condemn Iran’s drone attack on Israel, calling it contrary to the will of most Iranians, whom they urge to oppose the regime of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

“Khamenei’s war is not Iran’s war or that of the Iranian nation,” Reza Pahlavi, the crown prince of Iran, who is living in exile in the United States, writes on Facebook.

“Khamenei and his regime have turned Iran into a backward and isolated country, and by involving the nation and the state in another war, they only add to the misery of Iranians,” Pahlavi adds.

The path to “lasting peace and security in the Middle East,” writes Pahlavi, “is to support the people of Iran who are fighting to reclaim our country and our rightful place in the world.”

Afshin Ellian, a well-known law professor who fled Iran for the Netherlands, writes on X: “Despite the attack on Israel, the Iranian population has been and is against this criminal regime [of Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei]. The Iranian resistance movement is ready to fight Khamenei’s regime,” he writes.

Pouria Zeraati, a television anchor at the UK-based channel Iran International, calls the Iranian Revolutionary Guards “terrorists” on X, and mocks its codename for the attack on Israel, “Honest Promise.”

Iran launches wave of ballistic missiles against Israel, claims Iranian state news agency

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard launch underground ballistic missiles during a military exercise, July 29, 2020. (IRGC via AP)

A source tells Iran’s state news agency that Tehran has launched its first wave of ballistic missiles against Israel.

According to Brigadier General (res.) Zvika Haimovich, former head of IAF Aerial Defense, such missiles should take around 11-12 minutes to reach Israel.

Kuwait Airways says it is diverting all flights from ‘areas of tension’

A Kuwait Airways airplane approaching Heathrow Airport in London, England. (Wikimedia Commons via JTA)

Kuwait Airways says it has decided to divert all incoming and outgoing flights away from “areas of tension” in view of the security situation in the region and concern for the safety of its passengers.

Iran threatens any country which ‘opens its airspace’ to Israeli attack on Iran

In this image released by the Iranian army on Jan. 23, 2024, army commander Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, left, and Defense Minister Gen. Mohammad Reza Gharaei Ashtiani talk in a ceremony to deliver the domestically built drones to the army, Iran. (Iranian Army via AP)

Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani warns that Tehran will firmly respond to any country that “opens its airspace or territory for attacks on Iran by Israel,” Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency reports.

IDF cancels planned draft of new conscripts Sunday

Illustrative: A group of new IDF recruits at a Meitav Induction Base, July 25, 2010. (Roni Schutzer/Flash90)

The IDF says it has canceled its planned draft day Sunday amid the Iranian attack on Israel.

New conscripts will receive a new date for their draft at a later time.

Lebanon closes its airspace amid Iranian attack on Israel

Lebanon announces the temporary closure of its airspace, Lebanon’s Al Jadeed TV says, amidst threats of an Iranian attack on Israel.

Sirens sound in northern town after rockets fired from Lebanon

Illustrative - The Iron Dome air defense system intercepts rockets fired from Lebanon, as seen over the Hula Valley, April 12, 2024. (Ayal Margolin/Flash90)

Sirens sound in the northern Israeli community of Snir, amid a rocket attack from Lebanon.

Hezbollah has been carrying out daily attacks on northern Israel amid the war in the Gaza Strip.

There are no immediate reports of damage or injuries in the attack.

UK’s Sunak condemns ‘reckless’ Iranian attack on Israel aimed at ‘sowing chaos’

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addresses the media at Downing Street in London, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says he condemns Iran’s “reckless” attack against Israel.

“These strikes risk inflaming tensions and destabilizing the region. Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on sowing chaos in its own backyard,” Sunak says in a statement.

“The UK will continue to stand up for Israel’s security and that of all our regional partners, including Jordan and Iraq,” he adds.

Jordan declares state of emergency over Iranian attack on Israel

Jordan has declared a state of emergency, state-owned Al Mamlaka news reports, amid fears of an Iranian attack on Israel.

Earlier this evening, Jordan announced it is temporarily closing its airspace to all incoming, departing and transit aircraft, saying the situation would be “continuously updated and reviewed according to developments.”

Interference in Jordanian air traffic affected Jordan’s GPS system prompting planes in the area to use alternative navigation systems, Haitham Misto, the chairman of Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission, says on Al-Mamlaka.

Syrian army puts its missile systems on high alert, say army sources

Smoke billows from an airstrike in Syria's rebel-held northwestern Idlib province, on August 26, 2023. (OMAR HAJ KADOUR / AFP)

Syria put on high alert its Russian-made Pantsir ground-to-air defense systems around the capital Damascus and major bases in the event of an Israeli strike, army sources say.

They say they expect Israel to retaliate against army bases and installations where pro-Iranian militia are based after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps said they launched dozens of drones and missiles against specific targets in Israel.

Netanyahu convenes war cabinet meeting in Tel Aviv

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convenes a meeting of the war cabinet in Tel Aviv, early morning on April 14, 2024. (Courtesy)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is convening a meeting of the war cabinet at the Kiryat military headquarters in Tel Aviv, his office says.

A photo released by the PMO shows Netanyahu seated with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Minister Benny Gantz, IDF chief Herzli Halevi, National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi and other senior officials.

IDF tracking more than 100 drones already heading to Israel from Iran

A drone flies over Iraq on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture/X)

So far, the Israeli military has identified more than 100 drones launched from Iran at Israel.

The Israeli Air Force is tracking the drones and is preparing for additional waves of attacks, which may also include missiles.

The drones that are currently being tracked are expected to reach the country within hours, though the IDF will work to intercept them at an earlier stage.

Other threats, including ballistic missiles or cruise missiles, will take less time to reach Israel, and the IDF says it will update accordingly.

The IDF says it is well-prepared to handle the Iranian attack, and Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi held another assessment in the last few hours.

Dozens of IAF fighter jets are currently in the skies and are prepared to strike wherever needed, according to the IDF.

Iraq says it is closing its airspace as Iran launches attack on Israel

Iraq announces that it is closing its airspace and suspending all air traffic after Iran launched a drone attack on Israel.

“Iraq’s airspace has been closed and air traffic has been halted,” Transport Minister Razzak al-Saadawi tells state news agency INA. The Civil Aviation Authority says the closure will last from 11:30 pm (2030 GMT) until 5:30 am (0230 GMT).

IDF says it struck Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon in response to drone attack earlier today

Unrelated to the ongoing Iranian attack on Israel, the IDF says it struck Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon in response to an explosive-drone attack on northern Israel earlier today, which seriously wounded a security officer.

Hezbollah sites were hit by fighter jets and artillery shelling in Kharayeb, Wardiyeh and Khilat al-Daba, the IDF says.

A member of Hanita’s security team was wounded in the earlier drone attack on the community.

Israel has reportedly begun intercepting Iranian drones over Jordan and Syria

Channel 12 reports, without citing any sources, that Israel has begun intercepting Iranian drones over Syria and Jordan.

The ability to do so is thanks to an aerial umbrella set up by the US in cooperation with regional allies.

Meanwhile, Iran’s defense minister has issued a statement warning neighboring countries that any of them that open their airspace to Israel in order to intercept the drones will be targeted.

Iran-linked media says Tehran has launched third wave of drones at Israel

Iran-linked media reports that Tehran has launched a third wave of drones at Israel.

European Jewish communities raise readiness level following Iran’s attack on Israel

File: In this photo released by the Iranian army on Oct. 3, 2023, drones are launched during the air force nationwide drone drill centered in northern Semnan province, Iran. (Iranian Army via AP)

Jewish communities are entering a state of “heightened vigilance” following Iran’s drone attack on Israel, a leader of European Jewry says.

“Given the current situation, Jewish communities in Europe have raised their level of preparedness,” Pinchas Goldschmidt, the president of the Conference of European Rabbis, says in a statement Saturday night. Iranian proxies have in recent years targeted Jews across Europe, including in Greece and Bulgaria, Goldschmidt notes.

Separately, the secretary of the Organization of American States, or OAS, Luis Almagro warns that Iran may target Jewish communities in Latin America. This applies especially to “autocratic regimes with close ties with Iran and its proxies,” Almagro says at a symposium in Washington DC, organized this weekend by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) and B’nai B’rith International.

Jordan’s air defense ready to shoot down any Iranian aircraft that violate its airspace — sources

Jordan’s air defense is ready to intercept and shoot down any Iranian drones or aircraft that violate its airspace, two regional security sources say.

They say the army is also in a state of high alert and radar systems are monitoring drone activity.

IRGC says strike on Israel a response to alleged IDF strike on consular compound in Damascus

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issues a statement confirming its launch of an attack on Israel, saying it is in response to the IDF’s strike on a consular compound in Damascus in which several IRGC members were killed, including two generals, earlier this month.

The IRGC says it will hit specific targets in Israel with dozens of drones and missiles, apparently cruise missiles.

Footage shows Iranian Shahed 136 drone flying over Iraq en route to Israel

A drone flies over Iraq on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture/X)

Footage circulating on social media purports to show an Iranian Shahed 136 drone flying over Iraq, amid Iran’s attack on Israel.

Iran has launched dozens of drones at Israel, which are expected to take several hours to reach the country, officials have said.

White House says support for Israel ironclad, as Biden readies to meet advisers regarding Iran strike

US President Joe Biden will meet with his national security team at the White House later this afternoon to discuss Iran’s ongoing strike on Israel.

“His team is in constant communication with Israeli officials as well as other partners and allies,” the White House says. “This attack is likely to unfold over a number of hours.”

“President Biden has been clear: our support for Israel’s security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran,” the White House adds.

The White House meeting later today will be with principals of the National Security Council: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Q. Brown, CIA Director Bill Burns, DNI Director Avril Haines, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer, Counselor to the President Steve Ricchetti and National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk. Vice President Harris and Chief of Staff Jeff Zients will attend by secure video.

Earlier today, Biden was briefed on events in the Middle East by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer.

Airport authority says Israeli airspace will close from 12:30 a.m. due to Iran attack

File: Passengers at the Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, on December 26, 2023. (Arie Leib Abrams/Flash90)

The Israel Airports Authority says Israel’s airspace will close from 12:30 a.m., amid the Iranian attack on Israel.

The IAA does not provide details on when flights will resume, saying it will provide updates according to the developments.

It recommends that passengers check with their airlines and on the IAA site regarding flight schedules.

Top Biden aide tells Israeli counterpart ‘US commitment to Israel’s security is ironclad’

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington, March 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan spoke earlier today with his Israeli counterpart Tzachi Hanegbi regarding the anticipated Iran strike.

“During the call, I reiterated the United States’ ironclad commitment to the security of Israel,” Sullivan tweets.

State-linked media reports second wave of drones launched at Israel

State-linked media in Iran is reporting that a second wave of drones has been launched by the Islamic Republic at Israel.

A number of drones were seen flying from the direction of Iran over Iraq’s Sulaymaniya province, three security sources tells Reuters.

“Dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran in the direction of Israel over Iraqi airspace,” two Iraqi security sources also tell Reuters.

Iraq also announced shutting down its airspace and suspending all air traffic earlier today, Iraq’s transport ministry tells the country’s state-owned news agency.

Former IDF intel chief: ‘Simplest bomb shelter’ can protect against Iranian drones

Amos Yadlin, the former head of IDF military intelligence, says it is appropriate that Israel is preparing as needed, but believes “the public can sleep soundly” tonight.

Speaking on Channel 12, as Israel confirms that Iran has launched dozens of drones at Israel, Yadlin highlights Israel’s array of missile defense systems and other capabilities.

He notes that the Iranian drones, which are several hours away, carry a 20-kilogram warhead, which “the simplest bomb shelter” can protect against, and says he estimates that the drones are likely headed only to military targets.

Yadlin notes that the launch of the drones is a victory for Gaza’s Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, who aimed for Hamas’s October 7 massacre in Israel to prompt attacks against Israel on multiple fronts.

IDF says it’s tracking all of the drones launched at Israel from Iran

Iranian drone Shahed-129 is displayed at a rally in Tehran, Iran, on February 11, 2016. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi, File)

The IDF in a statement says the military is tracking all of the drones launched at Israel from Iran.

“A short while ago, Iran launched unmanned aerial vehicles from its territory towards the territory of the State of Israel,” the statement says.

“The air defense array is on high alert at the same time as the Air Force planes and Navy ships that are on a mission to protect the country’s skies,” it continues.

“The IDF is monitoring all targets,” the military says.

“We ask the public to adhere to and follow the instructions of the Home Front Command and the official IDF announcements regarding the matter,” it adds.

Settlers killed and mutilated dozens of sheep and goats during rampage of Palestinian village, footage shows

Settlers killed and mutilated dozens of sheep and goats during their rampage through the Palestinian village of al-Mughayyir earlier today, graphic footage published by the local municipality shows.

IDF confirms launch of Iran attack on Israel, says IAF tracking drones that’ll take several hours to reach Israel

IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari gives a press conference on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture)

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari in a press statement confirms that dozens of drones launched from Iran are heading toward Israel.

He says the Israeli Air Force is tracking the drones, while noting that they will take several hours to reach the country.

Hagari says there will be GPS disruptions as the military works to intercept the drones.

If there are any additional attacks, that require a separate warning, Hagari says the IDF will update the public.

Sirens will only sound if the drones enter Israeli airspace, at the relevant locations, Hagari says. He says the IDF will work to intercept the targets as early as possible. Israel’s air defenses, while not hermetic, are strong, he stresses.

Channel 12 says the US was the first to identify the launch and immediately notified Israel.

IDF spokesman to address public momentarily amid reports that Iran attack has begun

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari will give a press statement at 11 p.m.

The statement comes amid reports that Iran has launched an attack on Israel with dozens of drones.

Pair of El Al flights to Tel Aviv from Thailand turn back amid anticipated Iran strike

A pair of El Al flights to Tel Aviv from Thailand have turned back amid an anticipated strike by Iran.

Report: Iran begins attack on Israel, launching dozens of drones that’ll take hours to arrive

Illustrative: Iranians attend the funeral procession for seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members killed in a strike in Syria, which Iran blamed on Israel, in Tehran on April 5, 2024. (Atta Kenare/AFP)

Iran has launched an attack against Israel with dozens of drones, according to the Axios news site.

Drones are assessed to take several hours to cover such a distance.

There is no immediate statement from the IDF on the attack.

Iran has threatened to attack Israel over the killing of seven IRGC members, including two generals, in Syria’s Damascus last week

Netanyahu says Israel ready for direct attack from Iran, will respond in kind

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gives a video statement on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture/GPO)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel is ready for a direct attack from Iran and will respond in kind.

“Citizens of Israel, in recent years, and even more so in recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for the possibility of a direct attack from Iran,” the premier says in a video statement.

“Our defense systems are deployed, and we are prepared for any scenario, both in defense and offense. The State of Israel is strong, the IDF is strong, the public is strong.”

“We appreciate the US for standing by Israel’s side as well as the support of the UK, France and many other countries.”

“I established a clear principle — whoever hurts us, we will hurt them. We will defend ourselves from any threat and we will do so calmly and with determination.”

“I know that you, the citizens of Israel, are also keeping calm. I urge you to listen to the directives of the Home Front Command.”

“Together we stand, and with God’s help, together we will overcome all of our enemies,” Netanyahu says.

PM’s yet-to-be-used plane takes off from Israeli air force base, tracking sites show

The official 'Wing of Zion' state airplane is seen at Ben Gurion Airport on October 20, 2020. (Olivier Fitoussi/Flash90)

Israel’s “Wing of Zion” official state plane has taken flight from the Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, data from flight tracking websites show.

The plane built for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been collecting dust after being handed over to the Israeli Air Force several years ago; it has never been used officially.

The move comes amid heightened alert in Israel for an Iranian attack on the country.

Defense officials have assessed that Iran will likely try to target military infrastructure and not civilian sites.

Mental health hotline readies for surge in calls due to expected Iran attack

In response to the heightened security preparedness, ERAN, the mental health hotline, increases its capacity for dealing with an expected surge in upcoming calls and online messages.

ERAN encourages Israelis to reach out should they feel any emotional distress. All calls will be dealt with anonymously and trained responders are available 24/7.

ERAN can be reached by dialing 1201, by WhatsApp at 052-8451201, or online at https://www.eran.org.il.

Protests for new election, hostage deal end abruptly due to Home Front Command guidelines for potential Iran strike

Police forcibly removing protesters from the road during the Elections Now protest on April 13, 2023 in Caesarea (Ben Cohen/protest movement)

The anti-government protest merges with the hostage demonstration on Begin Street in Tel Aviv, with hostage family members speaking one after the other, and ending with a reading of the names of all held in Gaza, dead and alive, by Hamas.

The demonstration ends abruptly due to guidelines published by the IDF Home Front Command calling to limit public gatherings due to the threat of an Iranian attack.

Unlike previous weeks, most demonstrators disperse. A few hundred remain despite police orders, but, unlike previous weeks, do not march onto major highways. Police eventually usher the remaining protesters to the sidewalk, unblocking the road.

Also Saturday evening, police officers clash with anti-government protestors in Caesarea in front of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence and forcibly remove them from the scene. One protestor is seen being pushed into a police van.

“Police officer, police officer, who are you protecting?” calls the crowd into megaphones. “Police officer, police officer, I’m the one you should be protecting.”

Chants are led by Yom Kippur war veterans, shouting, “You’re the leader, you’re guilty.”

Jordan closes airspace amid threat of Iranian counter-strike against Israel; 2 UAE flights to Israel turn back

Jordan will temporarily close its airspace starting Saturday night to all incoming, departing and transit aircraft, state-owned Al Mamlaka news says amid the threat of an Iranian counter-strike against Israel.

Channel 12 reports that two flights from the Emirati airline Fly Dubai turned back toward the United Arab Emirates after taking off en route for Israel, ostensibly due to concerns regarding an Iranian threat or the decision by Jordan to close its airspace.

Hostage’s brother blasts PM’s ’empty slogans about total victory’ at anti-gov’t Jerusalem rally

Protesters outside Prime Minister's residence at hostages' rally in Jerusalem on April 13, 2024. (Charlie Summers/Times of Israel)

A crowd of hundreds of protesters outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence are currently booing the government amid growing disillusionment with the country’s leadership.

“The time for the hostages isn’t short, it has run out,” Hostages and Missing Families Forum organizer Tom Barkai says. “We know that they are dying there.”

The protest is taking place in the wake of news from negotiations in Cairo that Hamas does not have 40 living hostages that meet the requirements for release, prompting fears that more hostages may be dead than previously assumed.

“The responsibility has been on you for 190 days, and you aren’t taking the responsibility,” continues Barkai.

Nisan Calderon, brother of Hamas-held hostage Ofer Kalderon speaks to a crowd at a hostages’ rally in Jerusalem on April 13, 2024. (Charlie Summers/Times of Israel)

Nisan Calderon, the brother of Ofer Calderon, whom Hamas kidnapped from Nir Oz on October 7, tells the crowd that the more time passes, the fewer hostages will be left alive.

“I dreamed about sitting with my brother at the Passover Seder table. Benjamin Netanyahu, you shattered this dream by blocking the deal from going through, out of your personal interests and empty slogans about total victory,” says Calderon.

War cabinet, security cabinet to meet later this evening amid Iran threat

File - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convenes a meeting of the war cabinet in Tel Aviv on March 15, 2024 (Kobi Gideon/GPO)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to convene the war cabinet followed by the broader security cabinet later tonight amid an anticipated counter-strike from Iran, Hebrew media reports.

The security cabinet is expected to authorize Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and war cabinet minister Benny Gantz to make decisions on their own regarding how to respond to Iran’s strike.

Hamas submits response to hostage deal proposal; doesn’t explicitly reject it, but still demands ceasefire

A protester holds a placard as relatives of hostages held in Gaza and their supporters block traffic outside of the US embassy, calling for the immediate release of all captives, Tel Aviv, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Hamas issues a statement announcing that it has submitted its response to the latest hostage deal proposal.

The terror group says it is sticking to its original demands for a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the entirety of Gaza, the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza and other areas, a surge in humanitarian aid and the start of the Strip’s reconstruction.

Those demands have been non-starters for Israel.

Nonetheless, Hamas claims it is still prepared to reach an agreement and the statement doesn’t explicitly reject the latest proposal put together by American, Qatari and Egyptian negotiators in consultation with Israel.

Netanyahu en route to Kirya for security consultations on Iran threat

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is en route to the IDF’s Kirya military headquarters for consultations with top military brass amid an anticipated Iranian retaliatory attack against Israel.

Protesters gather outside billionaire’s J’lem home, where PM moved over weekend; reportedly has nuclear shelter

Haifa residents protesting against the government on April 13, 2024 (Courtesy Eilat Markovitch)

Tens of thousands of Israelis are attending protests against the government in various locations throughout the country.

A few dozen stand near the gated luxury mansion on Jerusalem’s Caspi Street, owned by American billionaire Simon Falic, a friend of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where the prime minister is said to be staying as of this weekend, and which reportedly has a nuclear shelter.

“You are the head [of government], you’re responsible,” call the protestors, who are told by Border Police officers to stand behind the fencing set up outside the mansion.

They also gather in Caesarea and in Haifa, where protestors march with drums and banners and chant: “The government of Israel is against the nation of Israel” and “A government without skills, you should quit now.”

Gallant huddles with IDF chief amid anticipated Iran retaliatory strike

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant holds an assessment with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and other defense officials on April 13, 2024. (Ariel Hermoni/Defense Ministry)

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is holding an assessment with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and other defense officials, his office says.

The meeting comes amid an anticipated Iranian attack on Israel.

Report: Security establishment still believes target of Iran will be military, not civilian

Channel 12 reports that the Israeli security establishment’s assessment remains that Iran will try and strike military, not civilian targets in its response to the alleged Israeli strike that killed several IRGC members, including two generals, in Damascus earlier this month.

Israel bars all educational activities, restricts gatherings, amid Iran attack threat

IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari speaks on April 13, 2024 (Youtube screenshot)

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari announces new restrictions on civilian gatherings amid threats of an Iranian attack on Israel.

The Home Front Command guidelines prohibit educational activities nationwide and restrict gatherings to 1,000 people. In some areas, such as near the Gaza and Lebanon borders, stricter gathering restrictions already exist.

While most educational institutions are currently out due to the Passover holiday, Hagari says the restrictions also apply to school trips and camps.

The restrictions are valid through Monday at 11 p.m.

Hagari says Israel’s air defenses “are on alert” and “dozens of planes are ready in the sky.”

Home Front Command restrictions issued April 13, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)

Israel’s leadership is using war to block protests against it, says speaker at anti-gov’t rally

Anat Arbel speaks at a rally on Tel Aviv's Kaplan Street, April 13, 2024 (Iddo Schejter/Times of Israel staff)

A protest leader speaking at the weekly anti-government demonstration in Tel Aviv says Israel’s leadership “is making cynical use of the word ‘war,’ using it to say that ‘now is not the time’ to protest.”

The speaker is Anat Arbel, a criminologist and among the leaders of “The Pink Front,” one of the organizing groups of the weekly demonstration on Tel Aviv’s Kaplan Street.

Arbel, who is also an IDF reservist holding the rank of major, adds that while she fights in Gaza, “this government is fighting us.”

Res. Maj. Gen. Nimrod Shafir speaks after Arbel. “The longest war in the history of Israel is also the greatest failure among wars in the history of Israel,” he says.

“Those who failed are our leaders, and at their head ‘Mr. Security,” he adds, referencing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The last speaker is Ron Sharf, a member of the reservists’ protest group Brothers and Sisters in Arms, who speaks against the government’s efforts to exempt ultra-Orthodox men from mandatory military conscription.

Hostage’s mother denounces Netanyahu: Because of you, Israeli women are being raped now in Gaza

Einav Zangauker (at the microphone) and relatives of several other Israelis held hostage in Gaza denounce Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for allegedly sabotaging a potential deal for their release, at a protest on Begin Street in Tel Aviv on April 13, 2024. (Flash90)

Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan is held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “torpedoing” a potential deal for the release of the hostages.

Speaking along with the relatives of several other hostages at a press conference on Begin Street in Tel Aviv, shortly before tonight’s rallies began, Zangauker, who has said she is a former Likud voter, denounced the prime minister in notably bitter language.

“You are responsible for the abandonment of the hostages in Gaza,” she charged. “Because of you, Israeli women are being raped now in Gaza. Because of you, Israeli men are being tortured in Gaza. Because of you, hostages are being murdered in captivity. Yes, because of you.”

She added: “They could already have been at home, but you torpedoed the deal.”

Speakers at the event cited what they call “testimonials” from two unnamed members of the Israeli hostage negotiating team, interviewed on Thursday’s Uvda investigative program, who were deeply critical of Netanyahu’s policies on the negotiations. “Without Netanyahu, the chances of making a deal would be better,” one of the two negotiators told the program.

At tonight’s event, the families said those interviews showed “that Netanyahu is sabotaging the deal, just like we have been repeatedly saying.”

It is believed that 129 hostages kidnapped on October 7 are still held in Gaza, not all of them alive.

PM says Hamas is only obstacle to hostage deal amid reports that he’s the problem

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a press conference in Jerusalem on March 31, 2024. (Marc Israel Sellem/POOL/Flash 90)

“Contrary to reports, the only obstacle to obtaining the release of the hostages is Hamas and not any factor on the Israeli side,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office says in a statement.

It’s unclear what reports he’s referring to.

“Among other things, Hamas demands an end to the war and a complete withdrawal of the IDF from the Gaza Strip. The cabinet and the security forces are united in their opposition to these delusional demands,” the PMO says.

“Despite the broad mandate that the negotiating team received from the prime minister and the cabinet, Hamas has to this day refused any deal and any compromise proposal,” the statement continues.

“The instructions of the political echelon were given after consultation with the negotiating team with the aim of obtaining the release of our hostages and maintaining Israel’s security, without any other considerations.”

Ex-Mossad chief indicates discomfort with IDF strike on IRGC generals that sparked latest Iran escalation

File: Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi (right) waves as he visits an exhibition of the Revolutionary Guard navy capabilities while accompanied by the guard's navy commander Alireza Tangsiri, in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, Iran, February 2, 2024. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)

Former Mossad chairman Yossi Cohen appears to voice some opposition to Israel’s killing of IRGC general Mohammad Reza Zahedi last week in what sparked the latest escalation between Israel and Iran.

Asked about the strike on Channel 12, Cohen repeatedly avoids expressing his support.

“Does his killing remove a threat to Israel — I don’t know. I hope that it does,” Cohen says.

“As for whether we are able to do something like this. This proves that we can,” he continues, acknowledging that Israel was responsible.

“As for the result, I want to believe — as we got used to doing when I was head of the Mossad and head of the National Security Council — that the possible responses to such a strike were discussed ahead of time,” he says.

Gallant: US, allies have provided Israel with ‘new capabilities’ to defend against Iran attack

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issues a video statement, April 13, 2024. (Elad Malka/Defense Ministry)

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says the United States and other allies have provided Israel with “new capabilities” to defend against a potential Iranian attack, as well as respond to it.

“We are closely following a planned attack by Iran and its proxies against the State of Israel. In recent days we have strengthened our [air] defense array and our offense array,” Gallant says in a statement.

“We added new capabilities, on land, in the air, at sea, in intelligence, within the State of Israel, and together with our partners, led by the US,” he says.

“Iran is a terror state, the world is exposed to it now more than ever. We are determined to protect our citizens against this terrorism and will find a way to respond to it,” Gallant continues.

He adds that Israeli civilians should “follow the instructions of the IDF and act in accordance with the directives of the Home Front Command.”

Ex-Mossad chief says ‘immediate’ need to free hostages warrants agreeing to ‘very long’ truce

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen speaks at a conference of the Makor Rishon newspaper at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem, February 21, 2022. (Yonatan Sindel/ Flash90/ File)

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen tells Channel 12 that there is an “immediate” need to secure the release of the hostages that warrants Israel agreeing to a “very long” truce with Hamas.

However, he clarifies that this does not mean that Israel should agree to end the war entirely.

Austin holds second call in three days with Gallant amid anticipated Iran attack

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held his second phone call in three days earlier today with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon says.

The pair discussed “urgent regional threats and reiterated unwavering US support for Israel’s defense. Secretary Austin made clear that Israel could count on full US support to defend Israel against any attacks by Iran and its regional proxies,” the US readout says.

Throngs of Israelis gather for Tel Aviv protest calling for elections and hostage deal

Israelis protest against the government on Kaplan Square, Tel Aviv on April 13, 2024. (Gilad Furst / Pro-Democracy Protest Movement)

Thousands of protesters are congregating on Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv to demonstrate against the government.

The rally calls for early elections to be held, the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from office, and a deal to be made for the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Police have blocked off large chunks of Kaplan Street and Begin Street, as well as nearby exits of the Ayalon Highway, which protesters often block off during their weekly demonstrations.

Police initially forbade demonstrators from convening at the corner of Kaplan and Begin Street, known as Democracy Square, saying that not enough people participated in last week’s rally to justify blocking off such a central intersection.

Israelis protest against the government on Kaplan Street, Tel Aviv on April 13, 2024. (Iddo Schejter/Times of Israel staff)

Nevertheless, police eventually ceded to protesters’ demands, allowing the demonstration to be held at its traditional location.

Once the rally ends, attendants are expected to merge with an adjacent demonstration on Begin Street led by families of hostages who are calling for a deal to release the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza since October 7.

IDF strikes several Hezbollah buildings in southern Lebanon after drone seriously wounds Israeli

The IDF struck additional buildings it says are used by Hezbollah, in southern Lebanon’s Tayr Harfa, Aalma ash-Shab and Yarine.

Another explosive-laden drone launched by Hezbollah struck an area near Kfar Blum. The IDF says there are no injuries in the attack.

Several more rockets were launched at the Western Galilee, the military adds.

US embassy ‘heartbroken’ by killing of staffer in apparent traffic dispute with off-duty border cop

The US Embassy in Jerusalem says it is “heartbroken” by the killing of one of its employees Jacob Toukhy.

The Arab resident of Jaffa was shot by an off-duty border police officer amid an apparent traffic dispute that escalated to violence.

“To Jacob’s family, we and and the US Agency for International Development (which directly employed Toukhy) send our deepest condolences; we mourn alongside you. Jacob was a valued member of our embassy community for over two decades.”

Biden cuts weekend trip to meet with national security team on Mideast tensions

US President Joe Biden speaks to the National Action Network Convention remotely from the South Court Auditorium of the White House, Friday, April 12, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

US President Joe Biden is returning early to Washington from a trip in Delaware in order to meet with his national security team regarding ongoing events in the Middle East, the White House says.

IDF says calm restored to West Bank after nearly a dozen villages reportedly attacked by settlers

The IDF and Border Police are deploying more troops to the West Bank following violence by settlers against Palestinians, after the murder of an Israeli teenager.

The military says “clashes developed” between Israelis and Palestinians at several locations in the West Bank, during which stones were hurled and shots were fired, avoiding pointing a finger at the settlers who were widely blamed to have instigated the clashes by ransacking nearly a dozen different villages throughout the West Bank.

Dozens of Israelis and Palestinians were injured in the incidents, the IDF says.

The military says “many forces” were deployed to the sites of the clashes and used riot dispersal means. “As of now, all the incidents have ended,” the IDF says.

“Along with the forces deployed to the area, it was decided to reinforce [the area] with several IDF and Border Police companies,” the army says.

The IDF says it is continuing a manhunt for the terrorists who murdered 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir.

PA premier: ‘Settler attacks won’t discourage our people from remaining on their land’

Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa has condemned attacks by Jewish settlers in the West Bank.

“The attacks of the settlers will not discourage our people from standing on their land,” he says in a statement, as attacks on Palestinian villages intensified following the death of an Israeli teenager near Ramallah.

Israeli border town’s security team member seriously wounded in Hezbollah drone attack

Hanita on April 30, 2024 (Maor Elhiani/Courtesy)

A member of the Hanita local security team was seriously wounded in the Hezbollah explosive-laden drone attack earlier today, the IDF says.

The security officer is serving as an IDF reservist, the military says.

He was taken to a hospital for treatment and his family was notified.

Hezbollah claimed to have targeted a building used by Israeli forces in the border community.

IDF, Border Police said to deploy more troops to West Bank amid settler attacks

The IDF and Border Police have decided today to deploy addition troops to the West Bank amid growing settler violence, after the suspected murder of an Israeli teen, the Kan public broadcaster reports.

Rights group reports at least 10 Palestinian villages under attack by settlers

File: Armed settlers gather on a hill overlooking the village of al-Mughayyir near Ramallah in the West Bank on April 13, 2024 (JAAFAR ASHTIYEH / AFP)

The Yesh Din rights group reports that at least 10 Palestinian villages in the West Bank are currently under attack by Israeli settlers.

Al-Mughayyir: Settlers opened fire, torched cars and wounded Palestinians.

Duma: Settlers opened fire, torched cars and wounded Palestinians.

As-Sawiya: Settlers hurl stones, damaging five homes and several vehicles.

Qusra: Settlers torch six homes and four vehicles in addition to other vandalism in the village.

Beitin: Settlers torch a car.

Silwad: Settlers block the village’s main road, throwing stones at vehicles, which damage several of them.

Sinjil: Settlers hurl stones at homes, damaging five of them.

Beitillu: Settlers hurl stones at homes, damaging several of them.

Turmusaya: Settlers vandalize three vehicles and two homes

Beit Furik: Settlers damage several houses and injure one Palestinian.

Canada warns citizens against all travel to Israel

Canada has warned citizens to avoid all travel to Israel, Gaza and the West Bank, upgrading its risk assessment of the region due to the increased threat of attacks on Israeli territory.

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly tweets a statement, saying Canadians already in the area should consider leaving by commercial means.

“With a heightened risk of attacks on Israeli territory, the regional security situation remains highly volatile & could escalate without notice,” Joly tweets.

The federal government had previously advised Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to the region.

B’Tselem: ‘Tens of thousands have been abandoned to the wild violence of armed settler militias’

The left-wing Israeli rights group B’Tselem issues a statement on the ongoing settler violence, saying that “tens of thousands of Palestinians have been abandoned in recent hours to the wild violence of armed settler militias.”

“While villages are on fire and the number of dead and injured is increasing, the Israeli army allows or takes part in the riots,” the group claims.

“This is what Israel has created in the West Bank: a reality of blood and more blood. Revenge and more revenge.”

“A weekend that began with the criminal killing of 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir, continues with more victims, including Jihad Afif Abu Alia, with many wounded Palestinians.”

“The Israeli government specializes in neglect – not only of its own citizens in captivity, but also of its subjects in the West Bank,” B’Tselem adds.

‘They had hate in their eyes’ Israeli photographer beaten by settlers while documenting attack of Palestinian town

Yedioth Ahronoth photographer Shaul Golan says he was attacked by a group of settlers after arriving at the Palestinian village of al-Mughayyir to document the rampage unfolding there.

“I was walking around the village taking pictures when I saw a group of masked Jews emerge from a nearby olive grove, walking around… as if they owned the town. I filmed as they torched homes,” he tells the Ynet news site.

Golan says he hid under a table in one of the burned homes as the assailants approach. “One of the children spotted me and called over the rest of them. They beat me mercilessly, breaking my finger and taking my bag to burn all of the photography equipment inside.”

“Then they searched my pockets for a memory card to make sure I didn’t have any recording of what they were doing,” he says.

“I started telling them, ‘I’m not an Arab, I’m a Jew.’ They ran toward me, screaming in terror and grabbed me, shouting, ‘You’re a Jew, how are you not ashamed of yourself?'”

“Some were in IDF uniforms and holding guns. There were 20 or 30 of them who beat me as I shouted for help, hoping that soldiers would hear me. But they were the soldiers… I laid on the floor, as every one of them kicked me in the head and stomach,” Golan says.

“They left me stripped and threw my motorcycle keys into the fire, so I’d have no way to get home. They had hate in their eyes,” he says

Gallant urges public ‘not take law into own hands’ as settlers attack Palestinian towns

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant tells the public not to “take the law into [their] own hands” as settlers rampage through several villages across the West Bank after the body of missing Israeli teen Benjamin Achimeir was found. The teen was murdered in a terror attack, the IDF and Shin Bet security agency said in a joint statement.

“I appeal to the public, let the security forces act quickly in the hunt for the terrorists,” he tweets.

“Acts of revenge will make it difficult for our soldiers in their mission. The law must not be taken into one’s own hands,” he adds. Gallant also expresses his condolences.

IDF: Two of Hezbollah’s explosive-laden drones struck area near border town

The IDF confirms two explosive-laden drones launched by Hezbollah from Lebanon struck the Hanita area a short while ago.

However, the IDF doesn’t provide further details on damage or potential injuries in the attack.

Hezbollah claimed to have targeted a building used by Israeli forces.

Additionally, three rockets were fired at the same area, which the IDF says struck open areas.

The IDF adds that troops are shelling the launch sites.

Hezbollah takes responsibility for launch of explosive-laden drones, rockets at northern border town

The Hezbollah terror group says it launched explosive-laden drones and rockets from Lebanon at the northern community of Hanita a short while ago.

The drones targeted a building that Hezbollah claims is being used by the IDF.

There is no immediate comment from the IDF on the incident.

6 Palestinians said injured, one shot in head, as settlers ransack W. Bank village after Israeli teen’s body found

Settlers attack the Palestinian village of al-Mughayyir in the West Bank on April 13, 2024. (Screen capture/X)

Six Palestinians were injured, one of them critically after being shot in the head, as Israeli settlers rampaged through the village of al-Mughayyir in the West Bank, the Palestinian Authority official news outlet Wafa reports. This comes after the body of an Israeli teen was found nearby.

Footage from the town, 17 miles north of Ramallah, shows settlers opening fire in the direction of Palestinians, in addition to hurling stones at them.

Clashes between the groups have also reportedly broken out as local Palestinians seek to push out the settlers. It is unclear whether the IDF has arrived.

Wafa reports that the five other Palestinians injured, not including the sixth who was critically wounded in the head, had sustained gunshot wounds to their lower extremities.

Wafa says that settlers torched a home in al-Mughayyir as well as the firetruck that came to try and put out the blaze.

Wafa reports settlers also opened fire on the funeral procession of Jihad Abu Alia, who was killed when settlers rampaged the same village yesterday after 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir went missing from a nearby illegal outpost.

His body was found earlier Saturday after he was killed in what the IDF calls a terror attack.

Settlers have reportedly invaded a number of other Palestinian villages throughout the West Bank, sparking clashes with locals. The Palestinian Red Crescent said 16 Palestinians were injured in those clashes near Ramallah and Nablus.

Clashes intensify between settlers and Palestinians, after discovery of Israeli teen’s body

Masked settlers gather on a hill overlooking the village of Mughayir near Ramallah in the West Bank on April 13, 2024 (Jaafar Ashtiyeh/AFP)

Clashes between settlers and Palestinians are intensifying in a number of locations across the West Bank, Palestinian media reports.

The violence comes after the discovery of the body of 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir in the West Bank, murdered in what the IDF says was a terror attack.

Settlers reportedly entered the towns of Beitin and Duma, close to Ramallah. A number of vehicles were said to have been set alight by settlers in Duma.

Images showed masked settlers gathered on a hillside overlooking al-Mughayyir.

Yesterday, settlers rampaged in al-Mughayyir and set fire to houses and cars, sparking clashes between Palestinians and Israeli soldiers in which a Palestinian man was killed and dozens of others injured.

Rocket siren sounds in towns close to Lebanon border

Sirens sound in a number of towns close to the Lebanon border, warning of incoming rocket fire.

The communities close to the border have been largely evacuated of civilians since Hezbollah began attacks on October 8.

IDF says jets hit Hezbollah targets in four south Lebanon locations

The IDF says fighter jets struck Hezbollah targets in four different areas of southern Lebanon a short while ago.

The targets included buildings used by the terror group in Houla and Bayt Lif, and two Hezbollah command centers in Odaisseh and Taybeh, according to the IDF.

The IDF says troops also opened fire at an area near Rmeish to “remove a threat.”

The IDF also says it is investigating suspected drone infiltration sirens that sounded in northern Israel earlier. There were no reports of injuries.

After IRGC seized Israel-linked ship, Katz says Iran should be sanctioned for ‘pirate operation’

Foreign Minister Israel Katz in Jerusalem, February 19, 2024. (Chaim Goldberg/ Flash90)

Tehran is conducting piracy and should be sanctioned for it, Foreign Minister Israel Katz says, after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

“The Ayatollah regime of Khamenei is a criminal regime that supports Hamas’ crimes and is now conducting a pirate operation in violation of international law,” Katz says. “I call on the European Union and the free world to immediately declare the Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist organization and to sanction Iran now.”

Body of Benjamin Achimeir, 14, found in West Bank; IDF, Shin Bet say he was murdered in terror attack

14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir, who went missing in the West Bank on April 12, 2024 and was found dead a day later. (Israel Police)

The IDF has found the body of 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir, who went missing while shepherding in the West Bank on Friday.

Achimeir was murdered in a terror attack, the IDF and Shin Bet security agency say.

According to the IDF and police, Achimeir set out in the early morning hours of Friday from a farm near the outpost of Malachei Shalom to go shepherding. Hours later, the sheep returned to “Gal Farm” without him.

Malachei Shalom is located near the West Bank town of al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says “the heinous murder” of Achimeir is a “serious crime.”

“I send my heartfelt condolences to his family,” Netanyahu says in a statement published by his office.

“IDF and Shin Bet troops are in an extensive pursuit of the despicable murderers and all those who cooperated with them,” he says.

“We will get the murderers and those who helped them, as we do to anyone who harms the citizens of the State of Israel,” the statement continues.

Netanyahu also “calls on all citizens of Israel to allow the security forces to do their work unhindered.”

Amid the searches yesterday, Israeli settlers rampaged in several Palestinian towns. The settlers set fire to houses and cars and sparked clashes between Palestinians and Israeli soldier that killed a Palestinian man and wounded dozens of others.

Renewed clashes were reported today in the towns of Beitin and Duma, close to Ramallah.

Achimeir’s body was spotted earlier today by a drone operated by the Border Defense Corps’ 636th Combat Intelligence Collection unit, close to the farm where he initially went missing.

The murder was believed to have been carried out by Palestinian terrorists, and taken place in the late morning hours or early afternoon, according to an initial investigation.

Next to the body, troops found personal belongings that were handed over to police for investigation.

IDF warns Iran ‘will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate situation any further’

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari delivers an English-language video statement, March 24, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)

In an English-language video statement, IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari warns Iran that it “will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further.”

The release of the video comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy seized an Israel-linked container ship near the Strait of Hormuz.

Hagari does not mention the incident, indicating it was perhaps filmed before, but says “Iran funds, trains and arms terror proxies across the Middle East and beyond.”

“Iran-backed Hamas started this war on October 7th; Iran-backed Hezbollah expanded this war on October 8th; and since then, Iran-backed militias in Iraq and Syria, and Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, have expanded this into a global conflict,” he says.

“Iran is the world’s biggest state sponsor of terror. Its network of terror doesn’t just threaten the people of Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria; the regime in Iran fuels the war in Ukraine and beyond,” Hagari continues.

He says “Iran will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further.”

“Israel is on high alert. We have increased our readiness to protect Israel from further Iranian aggression. We are also prepared to respond,” Hagari says.

“The Israel Defense Forces is prepared for all scenarios and will take the necessary steps — together with our allies — to protect the people of Israel,” he adds.

Reports of clashes between settlers, Palestinians near Ramallah

Extremist Israeli settlers are clashing with Palestinians near Beitin, close to Ramallah, Palestinian media reports.

The reported clashes come amid rising tensions in the West Bank over missing 14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir, who left a farm near the outpost of Malachei Shalom in the early morning hours of Friday morning to go shepherding. The sheep returned to “Gal Farm” without him, according to police.

Malachei Shalom is located near the West Bank town of al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah.

In the subsequent hours, Palestinians said settlers rampaged in al-Mughayyir, shooting and setting houses and cars on fire and sparking clashes between Palestinians and Israeli soldiers, in which a Palestinian man was killed and some 25 others were wounded.

Iran confirms Israel-linked ship seized by IRGC Navy near Strait of Hormuz

This image made from a video provided to The Associated Press by a Mideast defense official shows a helicopter raid targeting a vessel near the Strait of Hormuz on April 13, 2024. (AP Photo)

Iran’s Tasnim news agency says the seizing of the Israeli-linked MSC ARIES container ship was carried out by the IRGC Navy.

The vessel was boarded close to the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

Sirens warning of incoming drones sound in communities close to Lebanon border

Sirens warning of suspected incoming drones are sounding in multiple towns close to the northern border for the second time within an hour.

Hezbollah has been carrying out daily rocket, missile and drone attacks on northern Israel amid the war in Gaza.

Hundreds of volunteers join hunt for Israeli teen missing in West Bank since Friday morning

14-year-old Benjamin Achimeir, who went missing in the West Bank on April 12, 2024 and was found dead a day later. (Israel Police)

The search for a 14-year-old boy missing in the West Bank is continuing, with hundreds of volunteers joining police and IDF troops.

Jerusalem resident Benjamin Achimeir left a farm near the outpost of Malachei Shalom in the early morning hours to go shepherding, and has not been seen since. The sheep returned to “Gal Farm” without him, police said.

The Shin Bet security agency is also involved in looking for Achimeir.

The circumstances around the boy’s disappearance were still unknown and the military was not sure if the incident was terror-related.

Malachei Shalom is located near the West Bank town of al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah.

Yesterday, Palestinians said settlers rampaged in the village of al-Mughayyir, shooting and setting houses and cars on fire and sparking clashes between Palestinians and soldiers that killed a Palestinian man and wounded 25 others.

Sirens warning of suspected drone attack sound in communities close to northern border

Sirens warning of suspected incoming drones are sounding in multiple towns close to the northern border.

Hezbollah has been carrying out daily rocket, missile and drone attacks on northern Israel amid the war in Gaza.

Last night the Lebanon-based terror group fired a large barrage of rockets as well as explosives-laden drones at northern Israel as the country braces for an expected retaliatory attack by Iran or its proxies to an alleged Israeli strike in Syria that killed several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members.

UK military: Vessel may have been boarded close to key Strait of Hormuz, near UAE’s Fujairah

The British military warns that a vessel may have been boarded by an unknown party near the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

The warning from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations offers no details about the boarding in the Gulf of Oman off the Emirati port city of Fujairah.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the West.

Iran did not immediately acknowledge seizing any vessel, nor was there any report carried by state media about the incident. However, Iran since 2019 has engaged in a series of ship seizures and had attacks on vessels attributed to it amid ongoing tensions with the West over its rapidly advancing nuclear program.

The Gulf of Oman is near the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all oil passes. Fujairah, on the United Arab Emirates’ eastern coast, is a main port in the region for ships to take on new oil cargo, pick up supplies or trade out crew.

Since 2019, the waters off Fujairah have seen a series of explosions and hijackings. The US Navy blamed Iran for limpet mine attacks on vessels that damaged tankers.

Girl dragged out of tent by wolf at Negev campsite; father drives animal away

A girl who was camping with her family at a campsite in the Negev was dragged out of the tent by a wolf, Hebrew-language media reports.

The incident occurred at the Mamshit National Park.

The wolf tore open the tent, bit the girl and then pulled her outside, the reports say.

The girl’s father managed to drive the animal away and the girl was treated on the scene before she was taken to Beersheba’s Soroka Hospital for further treatment.

Car bomb explodes in Damascus embassy district; no reports of injuries

An explosive device detonated in a car in an upscale neighborhood of Damascus, Syrian state media says, quoting a police source.

Security incidents, including blasts targeting military or civilian vehicles, occur intermittently in Damascus.

It is not immediately clear who was responsible for the blast or who it targeted.

But it came with tensions high in Syria’s capital after Iran vowed retaliation for a strike on a building in the Iranian embassy compound in the Syrian capital of Damascus, which killed several Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders, including two generals. Tehran has blamed Israel for the strike.

“The explosion heard a short while ago in the Mazzeh area resulted from an explosive device detonating in a car in al-Huda square,” Syria’s official SANA news agency says, quoting a Damascus police command source.

It adds that there were no injuries.

The incident happened in the Mazzeh area, where Iran’s embassy and other foreign missions are located.

The Netherlands says Tehran embassy will be closed tomorrow as precaution amid tensions

The Netherlands will close its embassy in Tehran tomorrow as a precaution, the Dutch Foreign Ministry says in a statement, citing the rising tensions between Iran and Israel.

The ministry adds that it will decide tomorrow whether the embassy would reopen on Monday.

Qantas reroutes Perth-London flights amid concerns of Iranian strike on Israel

Illustrative: Two Qantas planes taxi on the runway at Sydney Airport in Sydney, Australia, August 20, 2015. (Rick Rycroft/AP)

Australia’s Qantas Airways says it temporarily rerouted flights between Perth and London on concerns about the Middle East, as expectations rose of an attack by Iran on Israel.

“We’re temporarily adjusting the flight paths for our flights between Perth and London due to the situation in parts of the Middle East,” a Qantas spokesperson says. “We’ll reach out to customers directly if there’s any change to their booking.”

Qantas says no flights between Perth, the capital of Western Australia state, and London had been paused or cancelled but that flights on the route are operating on an adjusted flight path via Singapore.

The Sydney-based airline’s other flights to and from London remain unchanged as they take different flight paths.

Reports of multiple people stabbed at Sydney mall; witnesses say they heard gunfire

Hundreds of people were evacuated from a shopping centre in Sydney after a suspected stabbing, news site news.com.au reports.

A police operation is underway at the busy mall near Bondi Beach after the suspected stabbing, according to the news site.

Two witnesses tell Reuters they heard shots fired.

One of the witnesses said they saw a woman lying on the ground before sheltering in a jewellery store.

New South Wales state police say a police operation is underway but do not provide further details.

Several posts on social media showed crowds fleeing the mall and police cars and emergency services rushing to the area.

Report: Hamas capabilities depleted, but terror group ‘remains in de facto control of swaths of Gaza’

Palestinians walk through the destruction in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, April 8, 2024 (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Officials and sources close to Hamas tell Britain’s The Guardian newspaper that while the terror group’s capabilities have been depleted, it is far from defeated.

The report says Hamas “remains in de facto control of swaths of Gaza” and notes that fighters from the terror group have been spotted maintaining order on the streets of Khan Younis, just days after Israeli troops withdrew from the city.

The outlet also notes the tensions between the terror group’s leadership in Gaza and abroad, including “deep personal animosity” between Yahya Sinwar and Khaled Mashal.

Additionally, the report says Hamas is facing rising dissent within Gaza.

IDF says it hit Gaza rocket launchers primed for attack on central Israel

Troops operating in the Gaza Strip in an undated photo released for publication on April 13, 2024 (Israel Defense Forces)

Overnight, the IDF says it struck in the Gaza Strip three launchers that had 20 rockets in them, primed for an attack on central Israel.

The strike came shortly after the Palestinian Islamic Jihad fired rockets at the southern city of Sderot. In the attack, the IDF says the Iron Dome intercepted three rockets, and artillery forces later shelled the launch site.

Over the past day, more than 30 other targets were struck by fighter jets and drones across the Gaza Strip, the IDF says. The targets included buildings used by terror groups, anti-tank missile launchers and other infrastructure, it says.

Meanwhile, the IDF says it is continuing a pinpoint operation in the central Gaza Strip, on the outskirts of the Nuseirat camp.

In the past day, troops of the 401st Armored Brigade and Nahal Infantry Brigade killed several gunmen and destroyed sites belonging to terror groups, including a Hamas weapons depot, the IDF says.

Another pinpoint operation is being carried out in northern Gaza’s Beit Hanoun, the IDF says.

Amid that operation, the IDF says that troops under the Gaza Division’s Northern Brigade spotted a group of gunmen in the area, and called in an airstrike against them.

Report: US expecting Iran to strike multiple targets in Israel and the region, will help with interceptions

The US expects that Iran will target multiple sites inside Israel and also in the region in the coming days, unnamed sources tell CNN.

The sources say the US will help with interceptions of projectiles.

A senior US administration official and a source familiar with the intelligence tell the outlet that Iran’s proxies could also be involved in the attacks.

The report says two people familiar with US intelligence said Iran has been seen moving drones and cruise missiles around, in an apparent sign that the attack could come from within Iran.

One of the sources says the US observed Iran preparing as many as 100 cruise missiles.

The report notes that the maneuvers could be posturing on the part of Tehran in an attempt to deter a potential counter-strike.

IDF says it struck large Hezbollah compound in south Lebanon

The IDF says it struck a large Hezbollah compound in the Rihan area of southern Lebanon a short while ago.

The compound included several buildings and a military post, according to the IDF.

The strike comes following a barrage of more than 40 rockets launched by Hezbollah last night on northern Israel.

Lufthansa says planes no longer using Iranian airspace

Lufthansa aircrafts parked at the airport in Frankfurt, Germany, September 2, 2022. (AP Photo/Michael Probst,file)

German airline Lufthansa says its planes will no longer use Iranian airspace amid speculation that Iran will be conducting a retaliatory strike against Israel in the coming days.

The airline has also extended a suspension on flights to and from Tehran amid soaring Middle East tensions.

“Due to the current situation, Lufthansa is suspending its flights to and from Tehran up to and including Thursday, 18 April,” a company spokesperson says.

“The airline is also no longer using Iranian airspace.”

As Saturday dawns, Israel remains on high alert for Iranian attack

Israel is braced for an imminent Iranian attack in retaliation for its alleged April 1 strike in Damascus.

With US President Biden himself saying he expects an attack soon, Friday night, at least, has ended quietly. But tensions remain high, with the IDF on high alert throughout the country.

Palestinians report Israeli strikes in Nuseirat in central Gaza

Palestinians report Israeli strikes in Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip.

The target of the strikes is not immediately clear.

Two men shot dead on road in northern village of Isfiya

Two young men were gunned down Friday night in Isfiya in northern Israel.

Media reports indicate the shooting took place on a main road in the Druze-majority town, hundreds of meters from the local police station.

The two, aged 24 and 26, were rushed in critical condition to a local hospital but died of their injuries.

Police at the scene opened an investigation.

Earlier, in Kafr Yasif, northeast of Haifa, a man in his 30s was shot dead and four others were wounded in a shooting at a local store. Two of the wounded were in serious condition, including the murdered man’s three-year-old son. The gunman escaped the scene.