israel prime minister visit to saudi arabia

Israel-Saudi Arabia ‘normalisation’ deal in reach, Netanyahu tells Biden

Meeting comes amid apparent friction between the two leaders over Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul plan in Israel.

Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed confidence that a “historic” US-brokered agreement to establish formal diplomatic relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia can be reached, as the Israeli prime minister held talks with US President Joe Biden.

The meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City on Wednesday was the first between the two leaders since Netanyahu returned to power late last year.

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Full text: zelenskyy’s speech to the un general assembly, biden urges un security council to authorise international mission to haiti, what to expect on day two of the un general assembly 2023.

The Biden administration has been pushing to establish formal ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, two top US allies in the Middle East.

“I think that under your leadership, Mr President, we can forge a historic peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia,” the Israeli prime minister told Biden ahead of their talks.

“I think such a peace would go a long way first to advance the end of the Arab-Israeli conflict, achieve reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Jewish state, and advance a genuine peace between Israel and the Palestinians. This is something within our reach.”

The discussions came as Israel continues to intensify violence against Palestinians in the occupied territories, drawing criticism from Palestinian rights defenders who have urged Biden to hold Israel accountable for abuses.

But on Wednesday, the US president called Netanyahu a “friend” and heaped praise on Israel.

“You’ve heard me say many times: Were there no Israel, we’d have to invent one, and I mean it,” Biden said.

He also lauded a newly announced initiative to create an economic corridor from India to Europe, including by rail through Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Israel. “It’s a big deal,” he said.

Few Arab states have recognised Israel since its establishment in 1948, but former US President Donald Trump’s administration helped secure agreements to establish relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco in 2020.

Sudan also agreed to join the so-called normalisation deals, known as the Abraham Accords.

Amid Israeli leaders’ calls for a similar pact with Saudi Arabia, Saudi officials have said Riyadh is sticking by the Arab Peace Initiative . That plan conditions normalisation with Israel on its withdrawal from Arab territories and the establishment of a Palestinian state, as well as finding a “fair solution” to the plight of Palestinian refugees.

In addition to the normalisation campaign, the Biden administration is pushing to include Israel in its Visa Waiver Program , which would allow Israelis to travel visa free to the US despite concerns about Israel’s mistreatment of Palestinian Americans.

Despite their continued alliance, US-Israeli relations have been marked by recent friction between Biden and Netanyahu.

The US president publicly clashed with Netanyahu earlier this year over the Israeli prime minister’s push to overhaul Israel’s judiciary, a move that his liberal critics say would weaken the rule of law in the country.

On Wednesday, Biden alluded to Netanyahu’s judicial plan, which has been put on hold for months. “Today, we’re going to discuss some of the hard issues,” Biden said.

“And that is upholding democratic values that lie at the heart of our partnership, including checks and balances in our systems and preserving the path to a negotiated two-state solution.”

Meanwhile, the US government has criticised Israel’s push to expand illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, as well as racist comments by ultranationalist ministers in Netanyahu’s cabinet.

Biden also had not invited Netanyahu for an official visit to the White House, leading to criticism from US Republicans and speculation about tensions between the two leaders.

US officials regularly stress that American support for Israel, which leading rights groups have accused of maintaining a system of apartheid against Palestinians, is unwavering. Israel receives at least $3.8bn in US military aid annually.

Reporting from UN headquarters on Wednesday, Al Jazeera’s diplomatic editor James Bays said a meeting with Netanyahu has been a “hot potato” issue for the Biden administration .

“The compromise … was not to have the meeting in the White House but on the sidelines [of the UNGA] here,” Bays said.

As the two leaders met, Jewish-American and Israeli demonstrators protested in New York.

The protesters – several of whom were waving Israeli flags – rallied “to raise their objections” to the judicial overhaul plan, Al Jazeera’s Kristen Saloomey reported.

“Many of the [demonstrators] that I spoke to say that they don’t think Biden should be even meeting with Netanyahu,” she added.

Later in the day, the White House said in a statement on the meeting that Biden invited Netanyahu to visit Washington, DC “before the end of the year to continue direct collaboration”.

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Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre

First ever official visit of Israeli minister to Saudi Arabia

27th september 2023.

What happened:  Israel’s Tourism Minister Haim Katz (Likud) became the first Israeli minister to formally visit Saudi Arabia.

• He arrived yesterday, leading an Israeli delegation that is attending the conference of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.
• Katz confirmed that his trip had been authorised by the prime minister. He told  Kan News , “the prime minister understands that tourism is a bridge to peace, a bridge to economy, that dialogue does that.”
• Katz further told Israeli media, “after 48 years, Israel was chosen to lead a strategic delegation. We were warmly received in the Riyadh by officials. I estimate that we will meet many delegations at the conference, those with whom we have relations, and, I estimate, also with those with who we don’t really.”
• In parallel yesterday, Saudi Arabia’s first ambassador to the Palestinian Authority (PA), Nayef al-Sudairi, made his first visit to Ramallah.
• Sudairi met with PA Chairman Abbas. After the meeting he said the pair, “emphasised the close relationship between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Palestine, and God willing, this visit will be the beginning of strengthening more relations in all fields.”
• Sudairi added, “We are working to establish a Palestinian state with its capital in East Jerusalem. Riyadh has a great interest in the Palestinian issue and its resolution based on international legitimacy resolutions.”

Context : The visit of an Israeli minister in Riyadh is the latest incremental step that compliments the growing anticipation that Israel and Saudi Arabia could reach a normalisation agreement in the next few months.

• Anticipation over a potential deal has been growing as the three principle leaders, US President Biden, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Crown Prince MBS are all motivated to reach an historic understanding.
• Last week Netanyahu and Biden discussed the issue when they met on the sidelines of the UNGA in New York. For more details on the potential deal see our recent briefing:  ‘Diplomatic efforts ongoing to reach Israel–Saudi normalisation’ .
• Adding to the speculation, MBS last week gave an interview to US Fox News, in which he said that “every day we get closer” to normalisation.
• An Israeli diplomatic delegation visited Saudi Arabia for the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting last month.
• In July, a team of Israeli computer gamers participated in a FIFA competition in Saudi Arabia.
• According to  Kan News , Israel’s Health Ministry Deputy Director General Dr. Sefi Mendelovich met secretly with a Saudi minister a week ago.
• In 2020, Prime Minister Netanyahu made a secret visit to the Saudi city of Neom where he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
• Sudairi lives in Jordan, where he already served as ambassador. His new role includes “non-resident ambassador” to the PA and Saudi Arabia’s consul-general in Jerusalem. Although the later role requires Israeli approval, his appointment is viewed as further indication of Saudi’s engagement in Israeli-Palestinian relations.

Looking ahead:  Next week Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi (Likud) is also expected to visit Saudi Arabia with a small delegation to attend the Universal Postal Union’s 2023 Extraordinary Congress.

• David Bitan, also a Likud MK and head of the Knesset Economic Affairs Committee, is due to join the visit.
• Behind the scenes, negotiations are expected to continue under US leadership to reach a formal normalisation agreement in the next few months.

Israel's foreign minister says visit to Saudi Arabia 'on the table'

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Israel Weighs Response to Iran’s Attack as Allies Push for Restraint

The Israeli war cabinet met again on Monday to discuss the strike, with some hawkish members of the prime minister’s government calling for a swift and forceful retaliation.

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By Cassandra Vinograd ,  Isabel Kershner and Michael Levenson

• April 15, 2024, 8:00 p.m. ET

Israel’s war cabinet on Monday met to weigh possible responses to Iran’s missile and drone attack over the weekend, as the United States, Britain and other allies strongly urged Israel to show restraint and sought to de-escalate tensions between the two regional powers.

Some far-right members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ’s government called for a swift and forceful retaliation in response to Iran.

An Israeli official briefed on the cabinet discussions, speaking anonymously in order to talk about security matters, said several options were being considered, ranging from diplomacy to an imminent strike, but gave no further details. There was no immediate public statement by the ministers, or by the Israeli prime minister.

“We are weighing our steps,” Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the Israeli military chief of staff, told Israeli soldiers on Monday in televised remarks during a visit to an Israeli air base. “The launching of so many missiles, cruise missiles and drones toward Israeli territory will be responded to.”

Mr. Netanyahu faces a delicate calculation — how to respond to Iran in order not to look weak, while trying to avoid alienating the Biden administration and other allies already impatient with Israel’s prosecution of the war in Gaza.

While the United States, Britain and France strongly condemned Iran’s assault and stepped in to help thwart it on Saturday, their calls for restraint highlighted the pressure Israel was facing to avoid a more direct confrontation with Iran.

President Biden on Monday hailed the successful interception of Iran’s airstrikes, which Iran carried out in retaliation for a deadly airstrike on an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria two weeks earlier.

“Together with our partners, we defeated that attack,” Mr. Biden said in his first public appearance since the strikes, speaking from the Oval Office where he was hosting Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani of Iraq.

“The United States is committed to Israel’s security,” he added, and was continuing to work toward a deal that would halt the war in Gaza, free the hostages there and prevent “the conflict from spreading beyond what it already has.”

Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesman, noted on Monday that Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken had spoken to officials in Britain, Egypt, Germany, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey in an effort to ease tensions.

“We continue to make clear to everyone that we talk to that we want to see de-escalation, that we don’t want to see this conflict further escalated,” Mr. Miller told reporters in Washington. “We don’t want to see a wider regional war.”

Still, he added, “Israel is a sovereign country. They have to make their own decisions about how best to defend themselves.”

As Israel considered its next move, Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, warned Israel again that, if attacked, Iran would “respond immediately to Israel’s adventures.”

“I reiterate that we are not seeking to increase tensions in the region,” Mr. Amir Abdollahian said, according to Iranian state media. But he added that if American bases in the region were used in an attack, Iran would “have no choice” but to target those bases.

Mr. Amir Abdollahian spoke to his British counterpart, David Cameron, on Monday, amid the diplomatic efforts to prevent further military strikes.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain described Iran’s attack as a “reckless and dangerous escalation” from a government that was “intent on sowing chaos in their backyard.” Faced with such threats, “Israel has our full support,” Mr. Sunak told British lawmakers. But he added that Britain was working with allies to de-escalate the situation, a point Mr. Cameron emphasized as well.

“We’re urging our Israeli friends to be smart as well as tough, to use head as well as heart, not to strike back, but to recognize that actually Iran has suffered a tactical and strategic defeat and Israel should now focus on Hamas and making sure they get that hostage deal and that we try to bring peace and stability to Gaza,” Mr. Cameron told the television program “ Good Morning Britain .”

His German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, went a bit further. Asked at a news conference on Monday whether Israel had the right to strike back, Ms. Baerbock said that “the right to self-defense means fending off an attack; retaliation is not a category in international law,” The Associated Press reported.

“Israel won in a defensive way,” she said, adding that “it is now important to secure this defensive victory diplomatically.”

Nearly all of the more than 300 drones and missiles that Iran fired at Israel on Saturday were shot down by Israel’s military with help from Britain, Jordan and the United States. The only serious casualty was a 7-year-old girl, Amina al-Hasoni , who was badly wounded.

On Monday, Iran said it was lifting airspace restrictions above Tehran, the capital, and reopening the domestic and international airports. In Israel, much of daily life returned to its usual rhythms, a day after the attack plunged the country into a state of anxiety.

In downtown Jerusalem, Jaffa Street was busy with shoppers and families out for a stroll at the start of a school break for the upcoming Passover holiday. Hip coffee shops and eateries in the fashionable German Colony neighborhood did a brisk business selling lattes and vegan lunch bowls.

On Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade, Lev Mizrach, 41, said he was taking the opportunity to enjoy some sunny peace and quiet while he could.

“For today, it seems we have a moment to rest,” Mr. Mizrach said. “I am hopeful this thing with Iran is over, for now, because I am sick and tired of war.”

Dana Ben Ami, 34, said she, too, hoped the crisis was over.

“Iran did what they needed to do,” Ms. Ben Ami said. “Enough. We should all just stop now and call it a day and agree that it is over.”

After more than six months of war in Gaza, she said, Israelis have little appetite for a new conflict with Iran.

“We have had enough of it all,” she said. “It’s time for Bibi to stop sending our husbands and sons to fight his wars,” she added, referring to Mr. Netanyahu by a widely used nickname. “We are sick and tired of his government.”

Israel’s options range from openly striking Iran to not retaliating at all, a concession that some analysts said Israel could leverage to encourage further international sanctioning of Iran or the formalization of an anti-Iranian alliance.

There is a precedent for doing nothing: During the Gulf War of 1991, as Iraq lobbed Scud missiles at Israeli cities, Yitzhak Shamir, then Israel’s hawkish prime minister, exercised restraint at the urging of the Bush administration to preserve the American-led coalition with friendly Arab states.

Israel could also revert to the ways of its yearslong shadow war with Iran, orchestrating some kind of bloodless cyberattack or relying on spy craft and covert actions against Iranian interests, inside or outside Iran, without claiming responsibility for them.

Israel’s choice will have strategic implications for its war in Gaza against Hamas, which is funded and armed by Iran, and for Palestinian civilians who have been struggling for months with violence and severe hunger. More than 33,000 Gazans have been killed in the war, local health authorities say.

Shlomo Brom, a retired brigadier general and a former director of the Israeli military’s strategic planning division, said that if Israel responded with substantial force to the Iranian attack, it could incite a multifront war that would compel the Israeli leadership to move its attention away from Gaza.

In that case, General Brom said, Israel might choose to delay its plans to invade Rafah, in southern Gaza, where more than a million Palestinians have sought refuge. Israeli officials describe Rafah as Hamas’s last stronghold.

“It’s not comfortable for us to have simultaneous, high-intensity wars in multiple theaters,” General Brom said.

Reporting was contributed by Liam Stack , Aaron Boxerman , Sheera Frenkel , Patrick Kingsley , Peter Baker , Farnaz Fassihi ,

Isabel Kershner , a Times correspondent in Jerusalem, has been reporting on Israeli and Palestinian affairs since 1990. More about Isabel Kershner

Michael Levenson joined The Times in December 2019. He was previously a reporter at The Boston Globe, where he covered local, state and national politics and news. More about Michael Levenson

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Israel-Hamas war, Iran attack

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April 14, 2024 - Iran's attack on Israel

By Jerome Taylor, Heather Chen , James Legge, Sophie Tanno, Emma Tucker , Kaanita Iyer , Paul LeBlanc , Catherine Nicholls, Maureen Chowdhury , Antoinette Radford and Eve Rothenberg, CNN

Our live coverage of Iran's attack on Israel has moved  here .

India calls on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board seized container ship 

From CNN's Sandi Sidhu in Hong Kong 

India has called on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board a container ship seized by Iran on Saturday. 

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that he spoke to his Iranian counterpart Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and "took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries."

Four Filipino seamen were also on board the ship, according to the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers.

The department said it was working with its government, the ship owner, and the operator to release the captured seafarers.

On Saturday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked container ship in a helicopter operation near the Strait of Hormuz, state news agency IRNA reported. 

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) said there were 25 crew members on board.

Japanese prime minister condemns Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Junko Ogura in Tokyo 

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday said he "strongly condemns" Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel.

"(The attack) further aggravates the current situation in the Middle East. We are deeply concerned and strongly condemn such an escalation," Kishida told reporters.

Kishida said Japan would continue diplomatic efforts to "prevent the situation from worsening and to calm the situation down," and "respond in cooperation with other countries."

Blinken calls British and German counterparts following Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Philip Wang 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with his counterparts from the United Kingdom and Germany on Sunday following Iran's attack on Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

All parties agreed "the importance of condemning Iran's attack in the strongest possible terms and preventing further escalation," the readout said. 

Blinken earlier held phone calls with his counterparts from Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia , in which he emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the Middle East and of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

US forces destroyed more than 80 attack drones from Iran and Yemen, Central Command says

From CNN's Philip Wang

US forces intercepted more than 80 one-way attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles from Iran and Yemen during its attack on Israel, according to a statement from the Central Command.

The operation included destroying a ballistic missile on its launcher vehicle and seven drones on the ground in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, CENTCOM said. 

"Iran's continued unprecedented, malign, and reckless behavior endangers regional stability and the safety of U.S. and coalition forces," the statement added. 

Israeli and Iranian ambassadors trade accusations during UN Security Council session

From Abel Alvarado in Atlanta

Israel and Iran’s United Nations ambassadors condemned each other’s actions during Sunday’s UN Security Council emergency session called to address Iran’s attack on Israel.

Israel’s UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said Iran "must be stopped before it drives the world to a point of no return, to a regional war that can escalate to a world war." Erdan accused Iran of seeking world domination and that its attack proved that Tehran "cares nothing, nothing for Islam or Muslims" before pulling out a tablet to show a video of Israel intercepting Iranian drones above Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Erdan called on the UN Security Council to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror organization.

“Action must be taken now, not for Israel's sake, not for the region's sake, but for the world's sake. Stop Iran today."

Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said his country’s operation was "entirely in the exercise of Iran’s inherent right to self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and recognized by international law."

Iravani said:

"This concluded action was necessary and proportionate," adding that the operation was “precise and only targeted military objectives” to reduce the potential of escalation and to prevent civilian harm. “Iran is never seeking to contribute to the spillover of the conflict in the region, nor does it to escalate or spread the tension to the entire region," he said.

Tehran’s attack had been anticipated since  a suspected Israeli strike  on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria earlier this month.

Iravani added Iran has “no intention of engaging in conflict with the US in the region” but warned Iran will use its “inherent right to respond proportionately” should the US initiate a military operation against “Iran, its citizens or its security.”

Israeli war cabinet says it's ready to respond to Iran's attack but delays immediate action. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

The hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack , an Israeli official said.

The cabinet is determined to respond — but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

Separately, a senior Biden administration official told reporters that an Israeli official told the United States that it's not looking to significantly escalate the showdown with Iran.

CNN analyst Barak Ravid said Israeli ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot advocated for swift action, but US President Joe Biden's phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led to a decision to delay the response until the next day. 

Here are the latest headlines:

• Retaliation is over, Iran told US: Iran privately messaged the United States that its retaliation against Israel had concluded, echoing what Tehran said publicly, according to a senior administration official. Late Saturday, Iran said its attack on Israel is a response to Israel's strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, and "the matter can be deemed concluded." However, President Ebrahim Raisi said any “new aggression against the interests of the Iranian nation will be met with a heavier and regrettable response,” according to Iran’s state news channel IRIB. 
• United Nations response: UN Secretary-General António Guterres  called for a de-escalation of violence after Iran’s attack. Guterres said the United Nations and member countries have a “shared responsibility” to engage “all parties concerned to prevent further escalation.” He also called for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “Neither the region nor the world can afford more war,” he said.
• G7 and others: Amid a flurry of diplomatic activity in response to Iran's attack, the G7 nations said they would work together to "stabilize the situation" in the Middle East, according to a statement from Biden. Also, Jordan summoned Iran's ambassador in Amman on Sunday after it intercepted Iranian drones over the country.
• Meanwhile in Gaza: As thousands of Palestinians were turned away from returning to their homes in northern Gaza on Sunday, a 5-year-old girl was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers, her mother said. Video showed a man carrying a 5-year-old girl named Sally Abu Laila, who was bleeding from her head, with people crowding around her in panic trying to cover her wound.

Also on Sunday:

• Israel decided to lift its restrictions on large gatherings and to reopen schools on Monday.
• The US Department of Homeland Security has not identified any “specific or credible threats” to the US since Iran attacked Israel.

Blinken calls Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian and Saudi counterparts following Iran's attack 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia following Iran's attacks in Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

During his phone calls, Blinken emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

In his conversation with Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an "enduring end to the crisis in Gaza."

Iran will be held responsible if any action is taken against the US or Israel, deputy ambassador warns

From CNN’s Abel Alvarado

The United States warned Iran against taking any action against the US or Israel during the UN Security Council emergency session over Iran’s attack on Israel.

“Let me be clear, if Iran or its proxies take actions against the US or further action against Israel, Iran will be held responsible,” US Deputy Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said Sunday.

The United States is “not seeking escalation, our actions have been purely defensive in nature,” adding that the “best way to prevent such escalation is an unambiguous condemnation of the council of Iran’s unprecedented large-scale attack,” he said.

The envoy reiterated US support for Israel and condemned Iran’s attack. “Iran’s intent was to cause significant damage and death in Israel,” Wood said.

Wood also said the UN Security Council had an “obligation to not let Iran’s actions go unanswered.”

“For far too long, Iran has flagrantly violated its international legal obligations,” he said before listing occasions Iran has violated UN Security Council resolutions and international law.

Wood accused Iran of being in a “broad sense complicit” of the October 7 attack on Israel by providing “significant funding and training for the military wing of Hamas.”

He added the US will explore "additional measures to hold Iran accountable here in the UN.”

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Saudi Foreign Minister to Visit Pakistan on Monday

FILE PHOTO: Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud attends a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan (not pictured) and other policy makers and advisors on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York City, New York, U.S., September 19, 2023. REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs/Pool/File Photo

(Reuters) - A Saudi Arabian delegation, led by foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, will visit Pakistan on Monday and Tuesday as part of efforts to boost economic cooperation, Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

The visit takes place to expedite follow-up on the understanding reached between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during their recent meeting in Makkah Al Mukarramah to enhance economic cooperation between the two countries, the foreign ministry said.

Sharif met with the crown prince last week and discussed expediting a planned $5 billion investment package, which cash-strapped Pakistan desperately needs to shore up its current account deficit and signal to the International Monetary Fund that it can continue to meet requirements for foreign financing that has been a key demand in previous bailout packages.

Pakistan has lately also been trying to secure Saudi investment in industries ranging from agriculture to mines, minerals and aviation.

War in Israel and Gaza

(Reporting by Gnaneshwar Rajan in Bengaluru; Editing by Susan Fenton and Leslie Adler)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Tags: Pakistan , Middle East , international trade , Saudi Arabia

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Iranian barrage of missiles and drones causes little damage, Israel says

What we know.

• Iran launched more than 300 cruise and ballistic missiles and drones at Israel, IDF officials said, a retaliatory attack weeks after an Israeli strike on the Iranian consular building in Syria killed two of Tehran’s top commanders.
• There were explosions visible in the air over Jerusalem as air sirens rang throughout the country.
• The U.S. and Israeli militaries shot down the “vast majority” of the missiles and dozens of attack drones. Some missiles struck a military base in the south, causing minor damage.
• A 10-year-old girl was severely injured by shrapnel, and about 31 people were treated for anxiety or injuries they sustained while heading to a protected area when sirens sounded.
• Iran said that after tonight's attack, the "matter can be deemed concluded" unless there is more violence.

This event has ended. Get the latest updates on Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel here

Attack a 'grave threat to regional security,' E.U. foreign affairs chief says

Josep Borrell Fontelles, the U.N.'s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, said in a post on X that it strongly condemns the Iranian attack against Israel.

Israel reopens its airspace

Paul Goldman

Richie Duchon

The airspace over Israel was reopened at 7:30 a.m. local time Sunday, a spokesperson for Israel's airport authority said in a statement.

Flights out of Tel Aviv were likely to change, and travelers should check with airlines and on the airport authority's website for updates to flight schedules.

Domestic airports would remain open throughout the day, the statement said.

Iran launched over 300 projectiles, Israeli military says

Rudy Chinchilla

Israel intercepted 99% of the more than 300 projectiles launched by Iran, and is ready for “any further developments and scenarios,” Israel Defense Forces spokesman Daniel Hagari said.

Among the projectiles were some 30 cruise missiles, none of which made it into Israel, Hagari said. Only a “few” of the more than 120 ballistic missiles launched entered Israel, with the rest being intercepted, he added.

Some of the ballistic missiles hit the Nevatim airbase, but they caused only minor infrastructure damage, and the base remained operational, Hagari said.

Iraq and Yemen also carried out launches against Israel, but none made it into the country, the IDF spokesman said. He added that “dozens” of rockets were launched from Lebanon toward the north of Israel, though Israel suffered no injuries or deaths and hit back by striking different targets in Lebanon.

A 10-year-old girl was severely injured by shrapnel, but there were no immediate reports of other Israeli injuries or deaths, Hagari said.

“Iran did something very serious, very severe this night, as it pushed the Middle East toward escalation. We will do whatever is necessary in order to defend the citizens of the state of Israel,” he said.

Netanyahu issues first public statement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued his first public comments since Iran's overnight attack, saying in a post on X, "We intercepted, we stopped. Together we will win."

U.S. destroyed 'dozens' of missiles and drones launched by Iran

Mosheh Gains

The U.S. military shot down "dozens" of missiles and drones en route to Israel, part of an "unprecedented" attack by Iran, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement late Saturday.

The aerial attacks by Iran were launched from Iran, Iraq, Syria and Yemen, he said.

"We condemn these reckless and unprecedented attacks by Iran and its proxies, and we call on Iran to immediately halt any further attacks, including from its proxy forces, and to deescalate tensions," Austin said in the statement. "We do not seek conflict with Iran, but we will not hesitate to act to protect our forces and support the defense of Israel."

Biden says he will coordinate a 'united diplomatic response' to Iran with G7 leaders

Doha Madani

President Joe Biden said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tonight, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to the security of Israel.

Military forces followed Biden's direction to help Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles, the president said. He also praised the country's ability to fend off attacks as a sign to others who threaten the security of Israel.

"Tomorrow, I will convene my fellow G7 leaders to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s brazen attack," Biden said. "My team will engage with their counterparts across the region. And we will stay in close touch with Israel’s leaders."

Though no U.S. forces have been attacked, Biden said America will "remain vigilant to all threats." He condemned the Iranian regime's attack tonight in the "strongest possible terms."

U.N. Secretary General condemns Iranian attacks

António Guterres, United Nations secretary-general, condemned the Iranian attacks on Israel tonight in a statement expressing concern over the serious escalation in the Middle East.

"I am deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation," Guterres said. "I urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid any action that could lead to major military confrontations on multiple fronts in the Middle East."

Guterres also condemned the April 1 attack on Iran's diplomatic premises in Damascus the day after it occurred.

He did not name Israel in that statement, which has not taken responsibility for the strike. Guterres emphasized the protection of diplomatic buildings and urged "all parties to respect all their obligations under international law."

U.N. Security Council to meet tomorrow

Rebecca Cohen

Yasmeen Persaud

The United Nations Security Council will meet Sunday following a request to hold an emergency meeting from Israel’s ambassador to the U.N.

The ambassador, Gilad Erdan, asked the council to condemn Iran's attack on his country and to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terror organization.

"The Iranian attack is a serious threat to global peace and security and I expect the Council to use every means to take concrete action against Iran," Erdan said in a post on X, which included the letter.

The meeting will take place at 4 p.m. ET, according to a U.N. schedule released tonight.

Iranian regime exercised 'its inherent right of self-defense' following diplomatic strike, foreign ministry says

The Iranian foreign ministry released a statement tonight reiterating its position that the strikes carried out against Israel were "in exercise of its inherent right of self-defense."

“The Islamic Republic of Iran would not hesitate to take further necessary defensive measures to protect its legitimate interests against any act of military aggression or unlawful use of force,” the statement said.

The ministry cited Article 51 of the United Nations charter and said that it was responded to Israeli's "recurring military aggressions," including the strike of Iran's diplomatic building in Syria earlier this mont.

The statement went on to say that its response was a "responsible approach" amid Israel's "apartheid" against Palestinians and "military aggressions" against neighboring states.

U.S. concerned Israel will respond to Iran without thought to potential fallout

Courtney Kube

Carol E. Lee Carol E. Lee is the Washington managing editor.

Some top U.S. officials are concerned Israel could do something quickly in response to Iran’s attacks without thinking through potential fallout afterward, according to a senior administration official and a senior defense official.

Those concerns stem in part from the administration’s views of the approach Israel has taken to its war against Hamas, as well as the attack in Damascus. 

President Joe Biden has privately expressed concern that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is trying to drag the U.S. more deeply into a broader conflict, according to three people familiar with his comments. 

The White House believes Israelis are not looking for a wider war or a direct war with Iran, but U.S. officials can’t be certain, the senior administration official said.

U.S. officials have privately expressed frustration with Israel’s decision to strike the Iranian consular building in Syria.

“I don’t think they had a strategy,” the senior administration official said. “The Israelis don’t always make the best strategic decisions.”

Senior leaders at the Pentagon also have privately expressed frustration at the timing of the Damascus strike, according to the senior defense official, because it had the potential to be “catastrophically escalatory.”

Netanyahu and Biden speaking

Yarden Segev

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently talking with President Joe Biden, according to a spokesperson for Netanyahu.

Their conversation follows discussions by the political-security cabinet and the war management cabinet, the spokesperson said.

Netanyahu's office did not disclose what the leaders discussed.

Israeli in Tel Aviv describes fighter jet sonic booms and explosions

Anna Schecter

Barak Herscowitz is hunkering down at home in Tel Aviv listening to what sounds him like a major war.

"The only sounds you hear, in a city where you would usually hear music from a nearby bar, is of fighter jets and explosions- no other sound," Herscowitz said.

Herscowitz, 38, said he is not in his safe room yet, and is feeling grateful for Israel's missile defense technology.

Hercowitz was just 7 years old when the Persian Gulf war broke out.

"I remembered today how we didn’t really have many ways to defend ourselves from both threats of that time: massive conventional missiles with mass destruction potential, and chemical weapons," he said. "This time, we have very strong air defense, almost all of the citizens have shelters in their homes — so for me, the feeling is much safer."

His real fear is for the long term: "This escalation is worrying mostly because it is unclear if Iran is dragging us to a much wider, longer and harder war on all fronts.” 

Hercowitz said he feels Israelis are resilient following more than six months of rocket fire from Iranian proxies.

"Although tonight is filled with an anxiety and I believe that no Israeli will sleep soundly, I’m optimistic we will get through these days in piece and the air defense will continue to work," he said.

Israeli security services say it treated 31 people

Israeli emergency services have been dispatched to treat 31 people who suffered from anxiety or minor injuries after emergency sirens blared throughout the country.

A statement from Magan David Adom noted that the injuries were caused "on their way to the protected area." It said it "continues to be on high alert."

A 7-year-old girl from the Bedouin diaspora was also in serious condition, but the cause of her injury is being investigated by police.

McConnell calls on House to pass national security supplemental amid Iran's barrage

Julie Tsirkin

Carly Roman

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called out the Republican-controlled House's inaction on a Senate-passed aid package for Israel and Ukraine after Iran launched an aerial attack against Israel tonight.

“Congress must also do its part," McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, said.

"The national security supplemental that has waited months for action will provide critical resources to Israel and our own military forces in the region. It will provide overdue lethal assistance to Ukraine and equip vulnerable allies and partners in Asia to deter the PRC. And it will make urgent investments in our own defense industrial base," he continued.

McConnell also urged President Joe Biden and Congress to "discharge our fundamental duties without delay." He did not elaborate on which duties he was referencing.

Biden has repeatedly said he will defend Israel against Iran and the U.S. is shooting down some drones flying toward Israel.

Richard Engel NBC News Chief Foreign Correspondent, Host of MSNBC's "On Assignment with Richard Engel"

JERUSALEM — Israel and Iran have been at odds for decades, but what we're seeing tonight is different. Iran is directly attacking Israel, instead of hiding behind proxies or using another militant group to attack Israel, therefore, inviting Israel to retaliate directly on Iranian territory.

It's important that Iran said that after this attack, it wants the conflict to be over, but to be determined is whether Israel, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, agrees with that.

The drone attacks in Israel were the first wave of what Iran has said would be a three-wave attack. The second wave is comprised of more drones and missiles, and the third wave is ballistic missiles, which has the biggest potential to escalate this conflict into a regional war between Iran and Israel.

Many of Iran's strikes appear to be focused in southern Israel, in the Negev Desert area, where drones and missiles appear to have gotten through the air defense system.

Israeli media reported that some of the drones appeared to target the Knesset building in Jerusalem.

Biden's Situation Room meeting concludes

Kelly O'Donnell

Elyse Perlmutter-Gumbiner

President Joe Biden’s meeting with principals of the National Security Council in the White House Situation Room has concluded, per a senior administration official. It was roughly two hours long.

200 drones, missiles fired toward Israel: IDF

Over 200 different kinds of missiles and drones — including killer drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles — have been fired toward Israel in the Iranian attack that launched just hours ago, Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said.

He called the attack a "wide scale escalation" and said the IDF is operating at "full force" to protect the people of Israel.

Hagari said the vast majority of drones and missiles have been intercepted outside of Israel’s borders with the help from Israeli allies. The U.S. said it has intercepted a number of drones.

A number of missiles were dropped inside Israeli territory, causing damage to a military base, Hagari said, adding that there were no reported casualties beside a girl who was hurt. He added, "we hope she will be well."

"We are ready for any threat that will come to Israel, we will do everything we need, everything, to defend the state of Israel," Hagari said.

U.S. politicians weigh in on Iran attack against Israel

After Iran launched hundreds of drones in an attack on Israel, House Speaker Mike Johnson said, “America must show our full resolve to stand with our critical ally."

Johnson, R-La., said Israel is not alone and assured he will work with the White House "to insist on a proper response."

He also called out the Biden administration, placing some blame on it for the attack.

"The Biden administration’s undermining of Israel and appeasement of Iran have contributed to these terrible developments," Johnson said.

Other politicians reiterated Israel's right to defend itself against such an attack and pledged U.S. support.

Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the U.S. commitment to Israel is “unwavering.”

“ This is the moment for the United States to show we stand together with our allies,” the senator said. “Our shared enemies, including Iran and their proxies, need to know our commitment is unwavering.”

Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, said in a statement to NBC News that “Israel has an inherent right to defend itself against these attacks from Iran and its proxies — before, during, and after they occur.”

Cardin, somewhat opposing Johnson's stance, said he supports President Joe Biden’s “iron-clad commitment to Israel’s security” and thanked his administration for taking what he said were necessary steps in recent days to support Israel as it prepared for an attack from Iran.

He reiterated that “the United States will continue to stand with Israel" and cautioned "Iranian regime leaders to not widen this already ill-conceived attack. Such escalation, especially targeting U.S. personnel and assets, should be dealt with swiftly and decisively.”

Others warned the attack could be far more extensive than it was initially thought to be.

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., the top Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said on X , “The attack on #Israel by the regime in Iran is going to be more extensive than initially expected.”

So far, the U.S. has intercepted some drones launched at Israel and is working to do the same for incoming missiles.

Trump sounds off on Iran attack

Former President Donald Trump sounded off on the Iran attack on Israel at a rally in Pennsylvania tonight.

He told the crowd the attack was a product of American weakness.

"That's because we show great weakness," he told the crowd at the Schnecksville Fire Company fairgrounds. "This would not happen. The weakness that we've shown, it's unbelievable and it would not have happened if we were in office."

Trump added that "America prays for Israel" as Iranian missiles were fired toward the country.

Later on, members of the crowd could be heard chanting, "Genocide Joe! Genocide Joe!" to which Trump responded, "They're not wrong."

President Joe Biden has repeatedly said he will defend Israel against Iran and the U.S. is shooting down some drones flying toward Israel.

But his defense of the Jewish State has attracted criticism from some corners of his party, even pointing out on one occasion that some protesters who were chanting that he was “complicit in genocide” in Gaza "have a point.”

Rockets and flares burst across sky above Jerusalem

JERUSALEM — Israel's air defense systems appeared to be fully engaged in the early morning hours here. The dark skies above the Old City of Jerusalem intermittently lit up with orange flares as Israeli rockets appeared to be taking out incoming Iranian drones.

U.K. moves resources to Middle East to ‘encourage de-escalation’ of attacks

Andrew Jones

The U.K. is moving Royal Air Force jets and air refueling tankers to the Middle East "to encourage de-escalation and prevent further attacks," the Ministry of Defense said in a statement.

The statement said the jets from the U.K. will intercept airborne attacks near existing missions by the country.

"We will continue to cooperate closely with our regional partners in the interest of de-escalation," the ministry statement said.

Biden meets with national security team

President Joe Biden said in a post on X this evening that he met with his national security team to discuss Iran's attack against Israel.

Biden cut short a trip to Delaware to return to the White House today.

Rocket fire streaks across sky as air-raid sirens blare in Jerusalem

Daniel Arkin

JERUSALEM — The dark sky above the Old City of Jerusalem lit up tonight with orange flashes of rocket fire as air-raid sirens rung out across the city.

The bursts of rocket fire resembled shooting stars and appeared to come from Israel's sophisticated air defense system, not the Iranian drone attacks.

Iran fired missiles at Israel, U.S. official says

A U.S. official confirmed that Iran fired missiles at Israel and that the U.S. military is trying to shoot down Iranian missiles and drones bound for Israel.

The U.S. has shot down several Iranian drones but does not have confirmation that it has successfully shot down missiles. 

House schedule to change next week in light of Iran's attack on Israel

The House's schedule will change for next week, said Rep. Steve Scalise, the House Republican majority leader, and it will refocus on considering legislation to support Israel and hold Iran accountable.

"In light of Iran’s unjustified attack on Israel, the House will move from its previously announced legislative schedule next week to instead consider legislation that supports our ally Israel and holds Iran and its terrorist proxies accountable," Scalise said.

As Iran launches a retaliatory attack against Israel, former NBC News Tel Aviv bureau chief Martin Fletcher reports on how the Israeli air defense systems are prepared to stop certain attacks, but explains why the ballistic missiles may still break through.

Iran says attack in response to 'Zionist regime’s aggression' has concluded

Iran said it conducted a military attack on Israel "in response to the Zionist regime’s aggression against our diplomatic premises in Damascus," and that "the matter can be deemed concluded."

The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the U.N. said in a post on X that if Israel makes "another mistake, Iran's response will be considerably more severe," and that the matter is between Iran and Israel, and that the U.S. should stay out of it.

It said the attack was "legitimate defense" in response to the suspected Israeli attack on the Iranian consular building in Syria and was "conducted on the strength of Article 51 of the UN Charter."

The drones, launched hours ago, are beginning to arrive in Israel.

Sirens sound throughout Israel

Raf Sanchez

Yael Factor

TEL AVIV, Israel — Sirens have sounded across Israel — in southern and northern Israel, and the areas of Shomron, the Dead Sea and Jerusalem, the IDF confirmed.

The sirens all sounded in the span of about three minutes.

Residents of the northern Golan Heights, as well as the areas of Nevatim, Dimona and Eilat, have been told by the Israel Defense Forces they are required to stay near protective spaces until further notice.

The IDF said residents are required to enter a protected space when sirens are activated. If there is no protected space, residents must find the most protected area possible and wait 10 minutes, it said.

U.S. military has shot down Iranian drones

The U.S. military has shot down some Iranian drones tonight, according to U.S. officials.

The military intends to shoot down Iranian drones and missiles when they come into range of U.S. assets in Iraq, Syria and at sea.

The U.S. has beefed up its air defenses in recent months since the attack on Tower 22 and has repositioned assets in the region to be ready for this Iranian attack.

NYPD says no credible threats to city

Matt Johnson

Iranian attack is 'severe and dangerous escalation': IDF spokesperson

Jay Marques

Iran launching drones toward Israel "is a severe and dangerous escalation," IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said in an English video announcement.

Hagari said the IDF is "closely monitoring Iranian killer drones that are en route to Israel sent by Iran."

"Our defensive and offensive capabilities are at the highest level of readiness ahead of this large-scale attack from Iran," Hagari continued. "Together with our partners, the Israel Defense Forces is operating at full-force to defend the state of Israel and the people of Israel."

He said, "This is a mission that we are determined and ready to fulfill."

Biden to meet Iraq's prime minister on Monday

Dennis Romero

President Biden is expected to meet with Iraq's prime minister, Mohammed Shia al Sudani, on Monday in Washington in a face-to-face discussion that has been on the president's schedule for weeks.

Their topic of discussion pertains the scope of U.S.-Iraq relations, including military presence and trade.

According to the D.C.-based military think tank Institute for the Study of War , the Islamic Resistance in Iraq could resume attacks after a monthslong pause.

The militia, including other Iran-backed groups, want the United States to leave Iraq, and the meeting could produce a crucial moment during which anti-Western forces decide whether the goal of U.S. troop withdrawal has any traction, the institute said in a critical threats update on Friday.

The think tank cites remarks by Qais Khazali, secretary general of an Iran-backed militant group, Asaib Ahl al Haq, who is said to have warned of renewed attacks if the Biden meeting doesn't result in a U.S. troop withdrawal.

Those attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq were paused in February amid talks between Washington and Baghdad on the size and shape of the United States' presence in Iraq. The wider array of Iran-backed militias in the region, the Iran-named "Axis of Resistance," rejects any plan that includes a U.S. military presence in Iraq.

At the same time, Iraq's Al Sudani has proposed deeper economic, agricultural, industrial, technological and energy ties to the United States.

A group of GOP lawmakers is decrying the Biden-Al Sudani meeting, saying in a letter last month it represents "appeasement of Iran," given the country's influence in Iraq.

Sen. Chuck Schumer said the U.S. stands with Israel

"As Israel is under attack from Iran, we stand with Israel and its people, and the United States will do everything we can to support Israel’s defense against Iran," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a post on X .

Schumer is the highest-ranking Jewish official in the U.S.

He recently called for new elections in Israel to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu convening war Cabinet

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is convening the war management Cabinet in Kirya in Tel Aviv, his office said.

Earlier today, before Iran launched hundreds of drones toward Israel, Netanyahu said the country has been preparing for the possibility of a direct attack from Iran in recent years and weeks.

"Our defense systems are deployed, we are prepared for any scenario, both in defense and attack," Netanyahu said. "The state of Israel is strong, the IDF is strong, the public is strong."

He said he appreciated the U.S. "standing by Israel's side," as well as Great Britain, France and "many other countries."

"I established a clear principle — whoever hurts us, we hurt him. We will protect ourselves from any threat and we will do so with coolness and determination," Netanyahu said. "Together we will stand, and with God’s help — together we will overcome all our enemies."

Biden back at the White House

Caroline Kenny

President Joe Biden arrived at the White House and was headed into the Oval Office at approximately 5:04 p.m. ET.

He is to meet with principals of the National Security Council to discuss the situation in the Middle East in the Situation Room, the White House said.

Biden cut short a trip in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where he was expected to spend the weekend.

X users circulate misleading videos amid Iran attack on Israel

Janhvi Bhojwani

When news broke that Iran had launched a retaliatory attack on Israel, some users on the social media platform X uploaded misleading videos, including footage from previous drone attacks or imagery from video games.

In one, an X user posted a video from six months ago showing Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system intercepting Hamas rockets in Ashkelon. In another post flagged by a reporter for the BBC, an X user falsely suggested that imagery from the video game “Arma 3” was video from today’s drone attacks.

Iran launches attack on Israel that risks sparking regional war

Dan De Luce

Aurora Almendral Aurora Almendral is a London-based editor with NBC News Digital.

Iran launched a retaliatory attack against Israel on Saturday that risks sparking a regional conflict that could draw in U.S. military forces. The attack marked the first time that Iran has launched a direct military attack on the Jewish state. 

Israeli military officials said the attack began with more than 100 Iranian drones heading toward Israel. It will take hours before the drones arrive, and Israeli officials said they hope to intercept them.

A senior Biden administration official warned that the assault could also involve dozens of cruise missiles and ballistic missiles. 

The official said the administration expects Israeli government facilities to be targeted but not civilian or religious sites. U.S. assets in the region are also not expected to be targeted, the official said.  

The U.S. and Israel have been closely coordinating how to defend against the attack, the official said. “We’re ready. The Israelis are ready.”

Read the full story here.

Israel has 'tens of aircraft' in Israel airspace: IDF

The Israeli Defense Forces have "tens of aircraft" in Israeli skies at the moment, an IDF official said at a briefing following Iran's launching of drones toward Israel.

The IDF confirmed the launching of drones but said it cannot confirm that Iran has launched any missiles. The official said the IDF cannot confirm the type or the payload of drones launched.

The official also said they cannot confirm if there have been any interceptions yet or what Iran is targeting in Israel.

The IDF is operating on "a pre-prepared action plan," the official said, adding that the idea is to intercept the drones before they reach Israel but that they will intercept the drones over Israel if necessary.

Congressional intelligence committees received classified info on Iran's plans

Members of the House and Senate intelligence committees had classified information made available to them last week on Iran’s plans to strike Israel, two congressional officials told NBC News.

The officials said they expect briefings from administration and intelligence community officials next week when Congress returns, but those briefings have not yet been scheduled.

Lebanese airspace is closed

Lebanese airspace has been closed to all arriving, departing and crossing aircraft, Ali Hamiyah, the minister of public works in the caretaker government, said in a post on X, in light of the attacks launched from Iranian territory toward Israel.

The closure is temporary, the government said, and will start at 1 a.m. local time and will be in effect until 7 a.m. local time.

Air traffic at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport will be completely closed during the same time period, according to the statement. Updates will be made according to developments in the situation.

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemns Iranian attack toward Israel

"I condemn in the strongest terms the Iranian regime’s reckless attack against Israel. These strikes risk inflaming tensions and destabilising the region," U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement.

"Iran has once again demonstrated that it is intent on sowing chaos in its own backyard," Sunak added.

Sunak said the U.K. will continue to "stand up for Israel’s security" as well as that of the U.K.'s regional partners, including Jordan and Iraq.

"Alongside our allies, we are urgently working to stabilise the situation and prevent further escalation. No one wants to see more bloodshed," Sunak said.

Israeli airspace closing to all domestic and international flights

Israel's airspace will be closed to all domestic and international flights starting at 12:30 a.m. local time, a spokesperson with the Israel airport authority said.

The spokesperson said the flight schedule from Tel Aviv is likely to change due to the delay in the arrival of flights to Israel and that the Ramon Airport will be closed to traffic.

Travelers should check with airlines and on the Airports Authority website regarding new flight times, according to the spokesperson, who said they will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.

El Al cancels 15 flights

El Al has canceled 15 flights, a spokesperson for the airline confirmed to NBC News. The canceled flights were mainly from Europe to Israel.

"In light of the closure of the airspace over Israel, some El Al flights are canceled," a statement from the airline said.

Updates will be posted on El Al's website and on social media. Customers whose flights were canceled will be notified when they can book an alternative when possible.

"El Al operates according to the instructions of the security forces and is in direct contact with them," the spokesperson said.

More than 100 UAVs launched toward Israel

More than 100 unmanned aerial vehicles were launched toward Israel, the IDF confirmed to NBC News.

U.S. bracing for 'major attack' in Israel

Now that Iran has begun its retaliation against Israel, the U.S. is bracing for this to be “a major attack,” according to two senior U.S. officials.

The administration’s expectation is Iran will launch more than 100 drones, dozens of cruise missiles and dozens of ballistic missiles targeting Israeli government sites, not civilians or religious sites, one of the officials said.

The U.S. and Israel have been closely coordinating on a defense against the attack. “We’re ready. The Israelis are ready,” the official said.

Commander of U.S. Central Command Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla was in Israel for a meeting with senior Israeli officials for the past several days, and now defense officials say he is traveling in the region. During his visit, Kurilla consulted with the Israelis on a defense plan that includes U.S. help from the sea and air, as well as how Israel might respond to Iran’s attack, the senior U.S. officials said.

The administration is not expecting Iran to target any U.S. assets in the region, the officials said.

IDF says Iran has launched attacks on Israel

Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson Hagari said in a televised statement in Israel today that "Iran launched unmanned aircrafts from its territory towards the territory of the State of Israel."

He reiterated that the threat will take "several hours" to reach Israel and that the IDF and the Israeli Air Force are implementing their plan that has been prepared for this moment.

He noted that if the threat is determined to arrive sooner than expected, updates will be provided.

In a separate statement, the IDF said Iran "launched UAVs from within its territory toward Israel," adding that the IDF, including the IDF Aerial Defense Array, is on "high alert and is constantly monitoring the operational situation," as are IAF fighter jets and Israeli Navy vessels.

The IDF is also monitoring all targets, it said. Hagari said they are also monitoring the threat in the airspace.

Hagari urged Israelis to be "vigilant" and to follow directives in accordance with the plans.

"We know these threats and have dealt with them in the past. If an alert is activated in the area where you are, you must enter the protected area and stay here for at least 10 minutes," Hagari said to the Israeli people. "We will update you if you are required to stay in the protected area for a longer time."

He said Israelis will be given updates and be notified of any changes in the situation from the IDF and the Home Front Command.

"Continue to behave responsibly and calmly, as you have done so far, be careful and act according to the instructions," Hagari said.

He added: "The IDF is prepared and ready for all its formations in defense and attack. We prepared for a variety of scenarios in advance. We work in close cooperation with the U.S. and our partners in the region to act against the launches and intercept them."

"But remember," Hagari warned, "the protection is never hermetic. That is why it is very important to follow the instructions and obey the instructions of the Home Front Command, they save lives."

Biden to meet with principals of the NSC on Iran attacks

President Biden will meet with principals of the National Security Council to discuss the situation in the Middle East in the White House Situation Room, the White House said.

Earlier today, Biden was briefed on the matter by national security adviser Jake Sullivan and principal deputy national security adviser Jon Finer, according to the White House.

They will later meet with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown, CIA Director Bill Burns, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, counselor to the president Steve Ricchetti and National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk.

Vice President Kamala Harris and chief of staff Jeff Zients will also attend the meeting virtually by secure video, the White House said.

The U.S. military is ready to help defend Israel in attacks from Iran that are expected to last for hours

Iran has begun its retaliatory strikes against Israel, according to three U.S. officials.

The attacks are beginning with drones, the officials said, but they expect Iran to launch missiles as part of what is expected to be an hourslong operation that is now expected to last late into the night.

The U.S. is prepared to help defend Israel with ships, including the USS Carney, a destroyer that has been involved in shooting down Houthi projectiles but is now repositioned to help Israel, as well as other destroyers and assets, the officials said.

NSC confirms 'airborne attacks on Israel'

Allie Raffa

NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson confirmed in a statement that Iran has launched its “airborne attacks on Israel.”

President Joe Biden is being updated about the situation in the Middle East by his national security team and plans to meet with them this afternoon at the White House, the statement said.

Additionally, Biden's team is in "constant contact" with Israeli officials, partners and allies.

The attack on Israel is likely "to unfold over a number of hours," Watson said in the statement.

"President Biden has been clear: our support for Israel’s security is ironclad," the statement said. "The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran."

Iran supreme leader had warned that Israel would be 'punished'

Earlier this week, Iran’s supreme leader,  Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , said at a prayer ceremony celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramadan that Israel “must be punished, and it will be punished.” His remarks were broadcast by Iranian state TV.

His comments came after Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on X that his country “will respond and attack in Iran” if it attacked from within its territory.

Iran launches drones toward Israel

Iran has launched drones toward Israel, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a statement, in an attack that Tehran had promised to carry out after its embassy in Damascus was hit last week.

U.S. restricts travel for Israel staff as Iran attack fears rise

Yuliya Talmazan

The United States has restricted travel for its staff in  Israel , as fears grow of an imminent retaliatory attack by  Iran .

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued  a security alert Thursday  restricting its employees and their family members from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be’er Sheva areas until further notice “out of an abundance of caution.”

Israel threatened to strike Iran directly if it launches attack from its territory

The Associated Press

Israel’s foreign minister threatened Wednesday that his country’s forces would strike  Iran  directly if the Islamic Republic launched an attack from its territory against  Israel .

“If Iran attacks from its territory, Israel will respond and attack in Iran,” Israel Katz said in a post on X in Farsi and Hebrew.

Iranian attack shows Oct. 7 did not kill Israel-Sunni regional alliance - analysis

It was not the love of tel aviv that the united arab emirates, bahrain, jordan, egypt, morocco, and -- unofficially -- saudi arabia together with israel, but rather a fear and hatred of tehran..

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Saudi delegation led by foreign minister to visit Pakistan on Monday

A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, is set to arrive in Pakistan on Monday for a two-day visit to discuss economic cooperation between the two nations.

The delegation consists of Saudi Minister of Water and Agriculture Abdul Rahman Abdul Mohsen Al-Fadley, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Ibrahim AlKhorayef, Deputy Minister of Investment Badr AlBadr, Head of Saudi Special Committee Mohammad Mazyed Al Towaijri and senior officials from the Ministry of Energy and Saudi Fund for General Investments, Pakistan's Foreign Office said in a statement.

"During the visit from 15 to 16 April, the delegation was expected to hold meetings with the President, the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister and counterpart Ministers, COAS, Apex Committee of Special Investment Facilitation Center (SIFC).

"This visit is aimed at lending positive impetus to enhanced bilateral cooperation and mutually rewarding economic partnership," FO said.

The visit takes place essentially to expedite the follow up on the understanding reached between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman during their recent meeting in Makkah to enhance bilateral economic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The two sides had agreed in the meeting to expedite work on investment of initial USD 5 billion by Saudi Arabia in Pakistan.

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