Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, said on Thursday that Israel successfully defended itself against a barrage of ballistic missiles launched by Iran earlier this week, asserting that Iran would face serious consequences for the attack.

“Our Prime Minister was very clear that Iran will pay a price,” Azar said during an interview. He emphasized the threat posed by such missile strikes from rogue states like Iran, warning of grave consequences for the region if these actions go unchecked. “If nobody is going to stop Iran, then it is our responsibility,” he added.

Azar attributed Israel’s defensive success to its world-class air defense systems and strong alliances with the United States and neighboring countries. “We were successful for two reasons. First, we have probably the best air defense systems in the world, which intercepted most of the missiles. Second, we have strong partnerships with the U.S. and our neighbors, who also helped thwart these ballistic missiles,” he said.

He further stressed that Middle Eastern nations are united in their determination to protect themselves and confront Iran’s violations of international law.

The remarks came after Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1, following the assassination of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut and Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. While Iran claimed it targeted three military bases in Tel Aviv, the Israeli army reported no casualties as most missiles were intercepted.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation, stating Iran had made a “big mistake” and would face repercussions. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed full support for Israel, saying, “The United States is fully, fully, fully supportive of Israel,” and said that discussions on a response were underway.

(Inputs from ANI)