Israel intercepts over 100 Iranian drones after preemptive strike, exposing Tehran’s weakened capabilities and years of Israeli covert planning
Iran’s overnight retaliation to Israeli preemptive strikes fell flat as over 100 drones launched toward Israel were intercepted by Israeli Air Force jets. “The IDF has control over the situation,” said military officials, confirming that none of the drones reached Israeli airspace. The drone barrage marked Iran’s immediate, yet limited, response after Israeli strikes crippled its missile systems.
IDF continued targeting Iranian radar and air defense networks, having already destroyed its S-300 systems in 2024. Officials say the ongoing dismantling of Iran’s air defenses ensures long-term Israeli air superiority.
A senior security official revealed to The Times of Israel that years of covert operations underpinned the success. Mossad agents activated pre-positioned weapons systems and drone bases deep inside Iran to disable missile launchers and air defense sites.
Despite lacking international military support for this preemptive action, Israel’s independent capabilities proved decisive. The Israeli National Security Council has meanwhile warned citizens abroad to heighten vigilance amid fears of global terrorist reprisals from Iran.