Israel running low on defensive interceptors? WSJ report claims missiles can last just 10-12 days

Israel’s defences may collapse within 10–12 days if Iranian strikes continue at the current pace, a report by Wall Street Journal raised alarm on Wednesday.

Citing a US official with access to allied intelligence, the WSJ report says Israel is burning through ₹2,400 crore a night, with $3M Arrow interceptors under immense strain. Some Iranian missiles are already slipping through.

Israel’s military strikes on Iran were named Operation “Rising Lion”.

Soon after the attack, the Israeli Prime Minister said, “We are in the midst of one of the greatest military operations in history - Operation Lions’ Dawn. The Islamic regime, which has oppressed you for nearly 50 years, threatens to destroy our country - Israel.”

“The goal of Israel’s operation is to prevent the nuclear and ballistic missile threat of the Islamic regime,” he added.

As per the report, with Iranian missile barrages continuing almost daily, Israeli air defence stockpiles are now under severe pressure. Without rapid resupply from the United States or direct intervention, Israel can maintain its missile defence for 10 or 12 more days if Iran maintains a steady tempo of attacks. 

Officials in Tel Aviv told WSJ that one-third of Iran's missile launchers have been destroyed and claim to have achieved air superiority over Iranian skies. Still, intelligence sources warned that over half of Iran's missile inventory remains intact, with a portion likely concealed in underground facilities.

On June 13, Iranian missiles evaded Israel’s defences and struck near the IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv. Moreover, on June 15, a direct hit forced the shutdown of a major oil refinery near Haifa. 

Moreover, Iran launched several attacks on Israeli targets, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 people, including women and children, according to Israeli officials.

By Wednesday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that the “battle has begun” after Tehran launched a hypersonic missile at Israel.