The Associated Press reported that the Israeli military confirmed ballistic missiles had been launched from Iran toward Israeli territory.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) later confirmed that it had launched missile and drone attacks against Israel following strikes by the United States and Israel.

In an official statement, the IRGC said the operation was carried out in response to what it described as aggression by a “hostile and criminal enemy” against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

“The first wave of Iran’s extensive missile and drone attacks toward the occupied territories has begun,” the statement said.

The Israeli Air Force is attempting to intercept the incoming missiles, while defence systems have been activated to prevent further damage.

According to the New York Times, sirens have been sounding continuously in northern Israel and in Haifa city, warning residents of the incoming threats and urging them to rush to shelter.

Israeli authorities said air defence units were activated immediately to prevent missile attacks.

Israel closes airspace

Israel closed its airspace to civilian flights following Iranian missile strikes, Israeli authorities confirmed on Saturday.

Officials said the decision was taken immediately after the attack as a precautionary security measure.

However, Israeli officials have not yet provided details on the number of missiles fired or the extent of any damage.

The Israeli military said that Iran fired 30 ballistic missiles at Israel and that air defence systems were actively working to intercept the incoming projectiles.

Following the Iranian strike, warning sirens sounded across several parts of Israel, prompting authorities to instruct civilians to immediately move to protected areas.

The military said defence systems were activated as soon as the missiles were detected.

In a statement, the Israeli army urged the public to strictly follow instructions issued by the Home Front Command.

It added that the Israeli air force was engaged in efforts to intercept threats and, where necessary, carry out operations to minimise potential damage.

The military stressed that no defence system is completely impenetrable, warning residents that strict adherence to safety guidelines is essential.

Authorities advised people to remain close to shelters and avoid unnecessary movement until further notice.

Safety measures in neighbouring countries

In related developments, Iraq has also shut down its airspace amid rising regional tensions.

Meanwhile, in Qatar, the staff at the US Embassy was moved to shelters as a safety precaution.

Shortly after the strike, a travel advisory was issued for Pakistani nationals currently in Iran.

The advisory urges Pakistani citizens to avoid unnecessary movement and exercise caution in view of the evolving situation.