Iran launches dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel

An Israeli military official said Iran launched on Friday dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel, as sirens sounded and AFP journalists reported loud blasts heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

"A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel," it said in a statement, adding the public should enter protected shelters "and remain there until further notice".

The army said the safety order applies to the entire territory.

Israel’s Channel 13 TV said the missiles are expected to take about 10 minutes to arrive.

Air raid sirens later sounded in Jerusalem and loud blasts were heard.

A thick plume of smoke towered over Tel Aviv's skyscrapers as blasts echoed across the coastal city. Dozens of "additional missiles" were later launched towards Israel.

"The attack is ongoing. Dozens of additional missiles were launched toward the State of Israel," the Israeli military said in a statement, informing the public that "the explosions you are hearing are from interceptions or fallen projectiles".

- Israel's attacks to 'bring it to ruin': Khamenei -

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said Friday that Israel's deadly attacks on his country will "bring it to ruin", vowing retaliation.

"The armed forces of the Islamic republic will inflict heavy blows upon this malevolent enemy," Khamenei said in a televised speech, adding that the consequences of the Israeli attack "will bring it to ruin".