In a significant escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel, Iran launched an unprecedented retaliatory attack on Israel late Saturday. The attack involved the deployment of dozens of drones and ballistic missiles, bringing the Middle East closer to a region-wide conflict. This marked the first direct military assault on Israel by Iran, a culmination of decades of hostilities.

The Israeli military reported that over 100 drones were fired, with the air defenses being prepared for the attack and ready to respond. While Israel did not mention the ballistic missiles, Iran confirmed their involvement. The United States, with its substantial troop presence in the region, has pledged unspecified support to Israel.

According to CNN, U.S. air defense systems in the Middle East managed to intercept some of the drones, although specific details were not provided. Air raid sirens were sounded in Jerusalem as a series of explosions were heard, creating uncertainty as to whether they were incoming attacks or interceptions.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the Israeli military's spokesperson, addressed the nation in a televised address, stating that they are closely monitoring the threat. However, it remains unclear if any drones were intercepted and what their intended targets were.

The attack from Iran comes in response to an airstrike in Syria on April 1 that caused the death of two Iranian generals within an Iranian consular building. Iran has accused Israel of being behind the attack, while Israel has chosen not to comment on the matter.

The ongoing clashes between Israel and Iran have been fueled by Israel's conflict with Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. Since the outbreak of the conflict, Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group in Lebanon, has launched attacks on Israel's northern border. Additionally, Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen have targeted Israel with rockets and missiles.

Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard confirmed launching "dozens of drones and missiles" towards Israeli territories. The use of ballistic missiles is worrisome since they have a higher chance of penetrating Israel's missile defense systems. Iran possesses a substantial arsenal of drones and missiles, which it showcased in videos featuring delta-wing-style drones resembling those used by Russia in Ukraine.

Israel has a well-established multilayered air-defense network capable of intercepting a range of threats. However, Rear Adm. Hagari warned that their defenses are not foolproof and urged the public to follow safety instructions.

In response to the escalating situation, Israel ordered residents in the Golan Heights, Nevatim, Dimona, and Eilat to stay near protective spaces until further notice. Dimona, which hosts Israel's main nuclear facility, prompted heightened security measures. School closures and restrictions on public gatherings were also imposed, and all flights in Israeli airspace were canceled.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning, stating that whoever harms Israel would face retaliation. The United States has expressed solidarity with Israel and pledged support in defending against threats from Iran.

This latest development has heightened tensions not only between Iran and Israel, but also in the wider region. The repercussions of these actions may have broader implications for stability and security in the Middle East.