Iran has launched hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel in a retaliatory attack, the Iranian military says.

Sirens and loud explosions are heard as Israel’s air defences intercept objects from the sky. As air raid sirens ring out, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have told Israeli civilians that they may hear blasts.

“The Aerial Defense Array is fully operational and is intercepting threats wherever required, even at this very moment,” it said.

“At this time, numerous planes are in the air, ready to counter any threat. You may hear explosions from interceptions or debris falling.”

Sirens were activated in Jerusalem at around 01:45 local time.

Loud explosions were heard with the air defence systems shooting down objects over the city.

The multiple interceptions lit up the night sky here.

The US has shot down some Iranian drones that were headed towards Israel, military officials say.

Iran had warned that Israel would be “punished” for a strike on its consulate in Syria on April 1.

Seven Revolutionary Guards, including two generals, and six Syrians were killed in the Damascus attack.

Israel has acknowledged carrying out hundreds of strikes in recent years on targets in Syria that it says are linked to Iran but has not claimed the Damascus strike.

President Joe Biden has promised what he called “ironclad” support for Israel, saying the US will “do all we can to protect Israel’s security”.

Iran had avoided direct confrontation with Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict, but the Damascus attack was seen as a serious escalation.

RAF Typhoon jets have been flying over areas of Iraq and Syria tonight and have been authorised to target any Iranian drones and missiles flying within range.

Iran is now citing Article 51 of the UN Charter for its attack.

It says “the matter can be deemed concluded” – suggesting it will not launch further strikes. However, it has warned against any retaliation or any involvement by the United States.

“Conducted on the strength of Article 51 of the UN Charter pertaining to legitimate defense, Iran’s military action was in response to the Zionist regime’s aggression against our diplomatic premises in Damascus,” its permanent mission at the United Nations said on Twitter/X.

“The matter can be deemed concluded. However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe. It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!”

Article 51 of the UN Charter says that member states have “the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs”.