US forces intercepted an Iranian drone targeting Israel, US defense officials said.
The official said the United States “continues to shoot down Iranian-launched drones targeting Israel.”
“Our military remains ready to provide additional defense support and protect U.S. forces operating in the region,” the official added.
Iran launched a barrage of drones and missiles at Israel in retaliation for Israel’s alleged attack on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria, earlier this month.
The Damascus attack left two senior Iranian officials dead and dealt a major blow to the Iranian government.
British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said the Royal Air Force is also deployed to the Middle East and stands ready to intercept Iranian drones heading for Israel.
“I strongly condemn Iran’s senseless air attack on Israel,” Mr Shapps said in a statement.
The Jordanian Air Force also shot down an Iranian drone. According to Reuters.
Iranian Defense Minister Mohamed Reza Ashtiani has warned that Israel will take a “firm response” against any country in the region that helps shoot down Iranian drones or missiles. according to Press national media channel TV.
Israel was on high alert to protect itself from drones, and the United States had pre-deployed troops to the region ahead of an expected Iranian attack following public threats from Tehran.
Iran’s attacks on Israel began late Saturday night local time and are continuing. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said sirens were blaring across the country from north to south.
The IDF said its forces, including fighter jets and the Iron Dome air defense system, were on high alert to protect the country.
Iran is expected to target Israeli government and military locations. Iranian state media reported that Ramon Air Base in southern Israel was attacked by seven missiles. The IDF has not commented on the attack.
Updated at 9:28pm ET.
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