Biden Condemns Iran’s Attack, Confirms U.S. Helped Intercept Missiles and Drones

By Yoni Weiss

Early on Sunday morning, President Joe Biden addressed the extensive attack by Iran for the first time, noting that Iran had launched over 300 missiles and drones at Israel. Biden confirmed that the United States military played a crucial role in neutralizing nearly all of these threats.

“Earlier today, Iran and its proxies from Yemen, Syria, and Iraq executed an unprecedented aerial assault on military targets in Israel, which I unequivocally condemn,” Biden stated.

He further detailed U.S. efforts to bolster Israel’s defenses: “At my directive, our military deployed aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region within the last week. Thanks to these strategic moves and the exceptional capabilities of our service members, we significantly aided Israel in intercepting the vast majority of the incoming threats.”

In response to the crisis, Biden announced plans to convene a meeting with G7 leaders to discuss a coordinated diplomatic approach.

According to Israeli officials cited by the New York Times, the attack comprised 185 drones, 36 cruise missiles, and 110 surface-to-surface missiles, mostly launched from Iran, with a smaller number originating from Iraq and Yemen. The United States, along with Britain and Jordan, assisted Israel in intercepting these threats.

In a conversation with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Biden reaffirmed the steadfast U.S. commitment to Israel’s security. “I assured him of our ironclad support and commended Israel’s robust defense capabilities, which have sent a definitive message to its adversaries that they cannot compromise Israel’s security,” Biden expressed in a White House release.

The President concluded with his forward-looking strategy: “Tomorrow, I will gather my G7 counterparts to formulate a unified diplomatic response to Iran’s aggressive actions. My team will stay in close communication with our regional partners and maintain constant contact with Israeli leadership. While our forces have not been attacked today, we remain alert to all threats and are prepared to take any necessary measures to protect our people.”