Air raid sirens wailed twice across Jerusalem on Wednesday after Israel’s military detected what it described as two incoming missile barrages from Iran, according to AFP journalists on the ground.
The Israeli military confirmed that air defence systems were immediately activated to intercept the threats.
“Air defence systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the military said in a statement as residents sought shelter.
Missiles Also Launched from Lebanon
Shortly after announcing the Iranian salvo, the military issued a separate statement confirming that “several launches” from Lebanon toward Israeli territory had also been intercepted.
Sirens were triggered across central Israel as defence systems responded. Authorities said the incoming rockets were successfully neutralised before impact.
Hezbollah Enters the Conflict
Lebanon’s involvement marks a significant escalation in the widening regional conflict. On Monday, the Iran-backed Hezbollah launched an attack on Israel, declaring it was acting to “avenge” the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during joint US-Israeli strikes.
The attack prompted immediate Israeli retaliation, raising fears of a broader regional war that could draw in multiple fronts across the Middle East.
Tensions between Israel and Iranian-backed groups have intensified in recent days, with air defence systems repeatedly activated amid threats from both Iran and Lebanon.
The latest exchange underscores the volatile security situation, as military confrontations stretch beyond Gaza and threaten to engulf neighbouring states.
