Iran has launched a massive barrage of 180 ballistic missiles at Israel, significantly escalating tensions in the region.
This attack was in response to the killings of top Iran-backed militant leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah and Ismail Haniyeh.
The Israeli military reported that a large number of the missiles were intercepted, and after about an hour, the threat was deemed neutralized.
The Nigeria Federal Government has initiated plans to evacuate Nigerians from Lebanon due to the rising hostilities. Dada Olusegun, Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, alerted Nigerians in Lebanon to contact the Nigerian mission for profiling, documentation, and subsequent evacuation.
Dada Olusegun, through his handle, @DOlusegun, said: “Alert! All Nigerians in Lebanon are expected to get in touch with the Nigerian mission for profiling and documentation and subsequent evacuation.”
This is Iran’s second attack on Israel, following an earlier missile and drone attack in April. The Iran-Israel conflict has been escalating since April 2024, with multiple incidents, including the Israeli bombing of the Iranian embassy in Damascus and Iran’s seizure of an Israeli-linked ship.
The situation has prompted international concern, with United Nations chief Antonio Guterres calling for an immediate ceasefire.
The US has also pledged support for Israel’s defense, shooting down Iranian missiles.
The conflict’s impact extends beyond Israel and Iran, affecting neighboring countries like Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan, which have closed their airspaces.
The Israeli Defense Forces reported effective air defense operations, intercepting the 180 ballistic missiles launched by Iran. The US described Iran’s assault as “defeated and ineffective”. The ongoing tensions have sparked fears of a broader regional conflict, with multiple countries and international organizations urging restraint.
