IDF: A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel.

Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat.

Sirens in northern Israel

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Salam warns Hezbollah against getting involved in the new Iran-Israel war.

"We will not accept interference from any party in Lebanon that will drag us into situations that threaten our security."

IDF: An additional barrage of missiles was launched toward the State of Israel.

Sirens again in northern Israel

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the people of Israel:

“My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, not long ago, Israel and the United States began an operation to eliminate the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran.

"I thank our great friend, President Donald Trump, for his historic leadership.

"For 47 years, the Ayatollah regime has been shouting 'Death to Israel', 'Death to America'. It has shed our blood, murdered many Americans, and massacred its own people.

"Such a murderous terrorist regime must never obtain nuclear weapons, which would enable it to threaten all of humanity."

continued...

"Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands.

"The time has come for all segments of the population in Iran - the Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Baluchis, and Ahwazis - to throw off the yoke of tyranny and create a free, peace-loving Iran.

"I call on you, citizens of Israel, to follow the instructions of the Home Front Command. In the coming days of Operation 'Lion's Roar', we will all need patience and inner strength.

"Together, we will stand firm, fight together, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel."

Sirens in Jerusalem

America’s name for the operation

Contrary to earlier reports, Israel has named the operation “Lion’s Roar”

Iranian officials say there are “no more red lines” in their response to Israel.

Tehran is getting rocked

Sirens again in Jerusalem

Reports of air raid sirens in Bahrain, where part of the US Navy is stationed

So far 3 limited waves of Iranian missiles.

In accordance with the military censor we won’t get into numbers.

Reports of numerous interceptions in the north and south of the country.

The IDF is rapidly mobilizing reserve forces to the borders with Lebanon and Syria to prevent any attempt by Hezbollah to join the fighting.

Military preparations are also being stepped up in Judea and Samaria to prevent terrorist elements there from being activated by their Iranian patrons.

Is this war any less biblical than the events marked by the holiday of Purim, when the Jews of the Persian Empire rose up to defend themselves against an existential threat?

The parallels are almost too numerous to count. Again a threat arises from within Persia. Again most of the Iranian people are opposed to it. Again the Jews rise up to eliminate that threat.

And, of course, all this is happening as we begin the Purim holiday in Israel.

Iranian Chief of Staff Amir Khatami is reportedly among a number of senior Iranian officials killed in the opening wave of Operation Lion's Roar/Epic Fury.