Iran launches new wave of drones toward Israel, Tel Aviv says it awaits attack prepared

(Patria) - Iranian state media report a second wave of drones launched toward Israel, according to Middle Eastern media. Earlier, the Israeli military (IDF) said it expects an attack and will intercept Iranian drones in the coming hours.

Israeli authorities said there is no panic, at least according to Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari. Hagari said Israel is "well prepared" for the attack.

"We prepared in advance for various scenarios. To intercept those launches, we have strong protection, both navy and air force," Hagari said.

He added that the drone will take several hours to reach Israel and that sirens will sound if any area is threatened. "We will try to prevent them from reaching Israeli territory, that is our task," he said. "If they enter Israeli airspace, then you will hear sirens," he added.

Amos Yadlin, former head of IDF military intelligence, says it is appropriate for Israel to prepare as needed, but believes "the public can sleep peacefully" tonight, The Times of Israel reported.

Speaking on Channel 12, as Israel confirms that Iran has launched dozens of drones at Israel, Yadlin highlights a range of Israeli missile defense systems and other capabilities. He notes that the Iranian drones, which are several hours away, carry a 20-kilogram warhead, from which "the simplest shelter" can protect, and says he assesses the drones are likely aimed only at military targets.

Yadlin notes that the drone launch is a victory for Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, who aimed for Hamas's October 7 massacre in Israel to trigger attacks on Israel on multiple fronts.