Israel’s airports authority said the country’s airspace was closed and flights were being redirected to alternative destinations outside Israeli territory.

“Iran’s attack is continuing. You are requested to remain in a protected space until further notice. The explosions you are hearing are from interceptions or fallen projectiles. The Aerial Defense Array is currently identifying and intercepting launches.”

DEVELOPING

A missile from Lebanon has just been shot down over Central Israel following red alerts sirens. MDA says there are no reports of injuries at this time.

Air-raid sirens blare across swathes of central Israel, warning of incoming rocket fire. The source of the attacks was not immediately clear. MDA Spokesperson: Following the recent Red Alert sirens in central Israel, no calls have been received to any casualties.

A U.S. official tells Fox News that Iran has been at a state of readiness to launch an attack on Israel within 12 to 24 hours since early August following the July 31 assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. In recent days the U.S. has seen additional movement of missiles in Iran to prepare for the now “imminent” attack, the official said. Iran could launch its attack as soon as this afternoon, U.S. officials also said.  

According to a U.S. official cited by CNN, the U.S. is preparing for a possible Iranian assault tonight, similar to the one in April. During that attack, Iran fired over 300 missiles and drones, but the majority were intercepted by defense systems from Israel, the U.S., and their Western and Arab allies.

The U.S. Embassy has directed all U.S. government employees and their family members in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza to shelter in place until further notice.