Israel Claims Record-Breaking Air Strike, Intercepts Over 100 UAVs Sent by Iran

JERUSALEM, JUNE 19 - In a dramatic escalation of the conflict, Israel's air force announced on Monday that it intercepted over 100 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) sent from Iran, dealing a significant blow to Tehran's efforts to target Israeli civilians.

In a statement on X, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have successfully disabled the Iranian drones, which were reportedly carrying explosives and other deadly payloads. The IDF assured that all Israelis are "heroes to us," emphasizing their right to self-defense in the face of the Iranian regime's aggression.

The development comes ahead of a rapidly escalating direct confrontation between Israel and Iran, with Tehran believed to be harboring multiple drone manufacturing facilities within its borders. According to reports from the IRGC-linked news agency Tasnim, Iranian security forces recently discovered a three-story Israeli drone factory inside Iran, sparking fears that such sites may exist elsewhere.

Earlier this week, Israel launched precision strikes on Iranian targets using advanced equipment, including explosive-carrying quadcopter drones and surface-to-surface missiles. The Israeli air force confirmed striking a missile launcher in Tehran and an aircraft refueling at Mashhad Airport, marking the longest-range strike since Operation Rising Lion began.

Hamas also triggered sirens in southern Israel after launching projectiles from Gaza, reminding Israelis of the ongoing multi-front war. The IDF Home Front Command has since instructed residents to remain close to shelters and prepare for potential future attacks.

As tensions continue to simmer between the two rival nations, Israeli officials are speculating that extensive air strikes may be aimed at preventing an anticipated Iranian missile barrage. With over 100 drones intercepted, it appears that Israel is taking a proactive approach to neutralizing Iranian threats and protecting its citizens.