Iran claims victory as air defence thwarts Israeli strikes

Iran's air defence system has reportedly thwarted Israeli attacks aimed at military targets in Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam provinces.

The Air Defense Command released a statement confirming that Israeli forces launched strikes early this morning in an attempt to escalate tensions, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

The command noted that Iranian air defences intercepted these attacks effectively, resulting in only limited damage in some areas, which is currently being assessed.

The statement urged citizens to remain united and calm, advising them to disregard rumours propagated by hostile media.

Iran's Deputy Head Mohammad Reza Aref remarked on Israel's attack, stating that Iran has “gained the upper hand over the enemy.” He emphasized, “Iran's strength leaves the enemies of our homeland feeling humiliated and powerless.”

As of now, there have been no strikes on military centres of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Tehran, despite reports of explosions heard in the city. These explosions were attributed to the engagement between Iranian air defence forces and Israeli military activity in three locations around Tehran.

In the capital, normal operations continue at Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad airports. Saeed Chalandari, Director General of Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKIA), confirmed that the airport is stable, with no security incidents reported. 

Iran's airspace, which had been closed due to the Israeli attack, reopened for incoming and outgoing flights starting at 9:00 AM Iranian time, as stated by a spokesman for the Civil Aviation Organization of the Islamic Republic.

In related developments, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed the outcomes of the Israeli airstrikes with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing that American forces in the Middle East are on heightened alert.

IDF Spokesman's Office head, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, commented early on October 26 about Israel's operations, stating, "We achieved all of our objectives."

He indicated that Israel's mission was a complete success, but added that should the Iranian regime perceive otherwise, Israeli fighter jets are prepared for an immediate follow-up strike.

Hagari did not specify the exact targets struck but promised further information would be available soon. He emphasized the precision of the Israeli strike, affirming it hit exactly what was intended.

By Tamilla Hasanova