The Iran-backed militia group Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple drone attacks on northern Israel early Tuesday, reportedly targeting strategic sites in the port city of Haifa. Iranian state media and the group’s Telegram channel reported that the strikes were a response to Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), a drone approaching Israeli airspace from Syria was intercepted and shot down overnight. The IDF did not confirm whether other drones entered Israeli territory but acknowledged heightened vigilance due to the ongoing regional tensions.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq announced it had conducted strikes on “vital targets” in Haifa, using explosive-laden drones, describing the operation as part of its stance against what it calls Israel’s “massacres” of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and Lebanon. The militia stated that its campaign would continue, citing retaliation for civilian casualties among women, children, and elderly individuals in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The recent attacks follow increasing threats from Iran, including remarks by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, warning Israel and the United States of “a crushing response” following recent Israeli airstrikes. The Israeli operations have targeted military and logistical sites linked to Iranian-backed groups, with recent strikes in Syria reportedly killing several individuals.
In response to the escalations, the U.S. has bolstered its military presence in the region. On Sunday, U.S. Central Command confirmed the arrival of B-52 Stratofortress bombers from Minot Air Force Base.
Amid these developments, Israel’s air campaign in Gaza has continued, with reports indicating severe civilian impacts. Local health authorities have estimated that thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed or injured as Israel targets key infrastructure sites, including hospitals and residential buildings, in response to attacks from Hamas and other armed groups.
