The initial announcement regarding the launch of the Iranian attacks came from the Israeli military. Daniel Hagari, the army's spokesperson, stated that the drones would take some hours to reach their destination while emphasizing Israel's readiness for the situation.
During a briefing with the press, Hagari highlighted that Israel has defensive and offensive measures in place and maintains close cooperation with the U.S. and regional partners.
Iran also confirmed it has begun its retaliation against Israel through a TV announcement. A news anchor, reading a statement by the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC), said:
"In response to various crimes of the Zionist regime, including the attack on the Iranian consulate section in Damascus and the martyrdom of some of our country's military commanders and advisors in Syria, the IRGC's Air Force targeted specific objectives inside the occupied territories by hitting them with dozens of missiles and drones."ABC News has quoted American officials claiming that 400 to 500 drones are currently making their way towards Israel after being launched from Iran's territory.
Comment: See also: Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel