Israel insists it successfully shot down 99% of the 300 lethal suicide drones and missiles that Iran launched at the Jewish state on Saturday night using an advanced air defense system known as David’s Sling, along with a range of other anti-missile capabilities. However, it was a team effort as Israel also received assistance from the US, UK, France, and an unexpected Arab ally.
According to Israeli media, not a single drone or cruise missile fired by Iran and its proxies penetrated the defense, and only a few of Iran’s more advanced ballistic missiles hit Israel.
Despite being targeted in a direct and unprecedented attack by Iran, Israel has displayed remarkable resilience and strength, emerging relatively unscathed from the ordeal.
It is heartening to note that amidst this conflict, the reported casualty thus far is tragically limited to a lone individual – a 7-year-old Bedouin girl.
This is what a 99% interception rate looks like. Operational footage from the Aerial Defense System protecting the Israeli airspace: pic.twitter.com/eAwcUPUDw2
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 14, 2024
“So the numbers are still are not 100% clear, but I understand 120 ballistic missiles, around 30 cruise missiles were flied, around 170 explosive drones — explosive UAVs that will route,” Israeli military spokesman Lt. Col. (R) Peter Lerner told CNN.
Hezbollah also fired about 40 rockets into Israel from Lebanon.
“The same types of munitions that they have given to the Houthis, the same types of munitions that are being used against Ukraine.”
Israelis’ reality in the last hours: pic.twitter.com/VXeHM8WqJi
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 14, 2024
Although the “Iron Dome” has gained worldwide recognition for its successful interception of rockets launched by Hezbollah and Hamas, it required even more sophisticated anti-missile systems to effectively thwart the massive barrage of missiles unleashed by Iran towards Israel. This significant escalation highlighted the importance of cutting-edge defense technology and strategic decision-making in safeguarding against complex security threats in the region.
300+ launches.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) April 14, 2024
99% interception rate.
This is the breakdown of Iran's attack last night: pic.twitter.com/aRPvxSutW2
The IDF shared footage of the attacks on X, showing fiery missiles being shot down as they soared through the air. Around midnight, Israel began intercepting cruise missiles launched from Iraq. Meanwhile, the US was reportedly shooting down drones over Iraq and Syria.
The US-designed fifth-generation fighter jet can fire air-to-air missiles capable of eliminating drones and missiles from a considerable distance, extending beyond the pilot’s visual range. The US and its allies also played a part in the “historically effective” interception of explosive drones and missiles aimed at Israel. President Biden described this as America’s “ironclad commitment to Israel’s security.”
So, who’s the Arab ally?
Supplementary assistance was provided by Jordan, a country that has transitioned from being a former adversary of Israel to becoming a strong and valued ally of the United States. This collaboration showcases the power of diplomacy and strategic alliances in fostering cooperation and peace in the region.
Biden reaffirmed “America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel,” adding that “Israel demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks – sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel.”
Biden also informed Netanyahu that the US would not participate in any offensive operations against Iran, as reported by CNN on Sunday morning.
