Iran’s retaliation, called Operation True Promise 3, began after dark last night with the first missiles reportedly impacting in Tel Aviv at about 9 p.m. (IDT) local time, which were followed by at least three more waves, sending Israelis to shelters repeatedly during the night. Some 80 people were reportedly hurt in the strikes, including three people who were critically injured and later succumbed to their wounds, reported the Times of Israel. Iranian media claimed hundreds of missiles were fired in the first barrage late Friday, June 13, while the Israel Defense Forces estimated that the actual number stood at less than 100. Four waves of attacks overnight each consisted of dozens of missiles, according to the IDF, which declined to provide a specific number. Several missiles impacted central Israel, with large explosions heard in the Tel Aviv area and smoke seen rising over several impact locations.
An American official said the U.S. assisted Israel in defending against the missile attacks. “I can confirm that the U.S. is assisting in shooting down missiles targeting Israel,” the official told AFP on condition of anonymity, but without providing any further details.
