Operational Update by IDF Spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Regarding the Successful Defense of Israel's Airspace Overnight

Good morning,

Last night, Iran initiated an attack against Israel, launching over 300 threats of various types. The Iranian threat met the aerial and technological superiority of the IDF, along with a strong fighting coalition - which together intercepted the overwhelming majority of the threats. 99% of the threats launched towards Israeli territory were intercepted - a very significant strategic achievement.

Of approximately 170 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that Iran launched, zero crossed into Israeli territory. Dozens of them were intercepted by Israeli Air Force fighter jets, our Aerial Defense Array, and the aerial defense systems and aircraft of our partners.

From the more than 30 cruise missiles Iran launched, none crossed into Israeli territory. 25 of them were intercepted by IAF fighter jets outside the country’s borders. Out of over 120 ballistic missiles, only a few crossed into Israeli territory, with the rest being intercepted. These fell at the Nevatim Air Force Base, causing only minor damage to infrastructure. As you can see, the base is operational and continues to carry out its missions. In the image, you can see the landing strip at the Nevatim base.

Iran hoped to incapacitate the base and thus impair our aerial capabilities, but it failed. IAF aircraft continue to take off and land from the base and depart for offensive and defensive missions. This includes the ‘Adir’ fighter jets, which are now returning to the base from an aerial defense mission, and you will soon see them landing.

In addition to the launches from Iran, several launches were made from the territories of Iraq and Yemen. None of them crossed into Israeli territory. In recent hours, dozens of rockets were fired from Lebanese territory toward the north; there were no casualties. Fighter jets struck Hezbollah targets across Lebanon, including Radwan targets. All this while additional aircraft continue their defense missions.

Over the past six months, we have been operating in close coordination with our partners, led by US CENTCOM, the UK, France, and other countries that operated last night. This partnership has always been robust, but last night it was exceptionally evident. Last night we conducted a complex defensive air battle, with excellent performance by the IAF and the Intelligence Directorate. The battle was directed under the command of the Chief of the General Staff from the Israeli Air Force Operations Center.

The interception capabilities of the Aerial Defense Array and the defensive abilities of the IAF aircraft, demonstrated exceptional professionalism as well as the IDF’s military and technological superiority. Thanks to all of this, the attack by Iran - was thwarted.

Unfortunately, a ten-year-old girl was severely injured by shrapnel. We wish her a speedy recovery. Other than her, as far as we know, there are no additional casualties.

However, it is important to say - the event is not over. We remain prepared and ready for further developments and threats. The guidelines of the Home Front Command remain and the restrictions are still in place, whereby educational activities including overnight stays and trips should not be conducted. Should there be any changes to the guidelines, we will update you immediately, transparently and responsibly, as we did last night - this is how we will continue.

The exemplary conduct on the Home Front throughout the night is worthy of appreciation, and it is necessary to continue to act responsibly, calmly, and without panic. We will do everything we can to ensure that the public receives the most relevant information as quickly as possible.

Throughout the night, the IDF conducted a situational assessment in response to developments. The Chief of the General Staff approved plans moving forward, which were presented to the political echelon. Iran committed a very serious act tonight, pushing the Middle East towards escalation. We are doing and will do everything necessary to protect the security of the civilians of the State of Israel.

Alongside tonight's developments, we have not for a moment forgotten about the 133 hostages held in Gaza. We will continue to do everything possible to bring them home as soon as possible.