Air defense in action
Several explosions rock Jerusalem
April 14, 2024, 1:45 a.m
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Iran fires dozens of drones and missiles towards Israel. Jerusalem is also the destination. The air defense system is fully operational and intercepts threats, emphasizes an army spokesman. Several explosions can be heard over the Israeli capital.
An air alarm was triggered in Jerusalem on Sunday night, resulting in several explosions being heard. As AFP reporters reported, at least five explosions were heard over Jerusalem around 1:45 a.m. (local time, 12:45 a.m. CEST). Another AFP journalist also heard explosions in Jericho in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The Israeli rescue service Magen David Adom has so far reported one seriously injured person as a result of the Iranian attack.
Army spokesman Daniel Hagari asked the Israeli population to behave “responsibly and calmly as before.” “We are strong and capable of dealing with this event. The IDF will do everything necessary to protect the citizens of the State of Israel,” said Hagari. The air defense system is fully operational and intercepts threats wherever it is necessary, “including at this moment.” Numerous aircraft are in the air to ward off any threat. Hagari warned of “explosions during interception operations or falling debris.” The US Embassy in Jerusalem ordered all employees to remain in place and shelter in place until further notice.
According to the Israeli army, Iran fired more than 100 drones towards Israel. It will take several hours for the drones to reach Israel. Iranian state television reported that the country’s Revolutionary Guards had fired drones and rockets towards Israel.
According to Hagari, Israel is working closely with the US and its partners in the region to “address and intercept” the drones. US broadcasters reported that the US army shot down several drones fired by Iran at Israel. Both the USA and Jordan reported shooting down dozens of drones from the direction of Iran.