Two IDF bases could have been completely destroyed in Iranian attack if not for successful air defense, analysis indicates

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If Israel’s air defense had failed early on Sunday morning, the two primary targets of Iran’s attack on Israel could have been completely destroyed, given the amount of explosives launched by Iran.

IDF Spokesman Brig.-Gen. Daniel Hagari said the Iranian attack included approximately 350 drones and missiles, which amounted to about 60 tons of explosives.

“The impact of explosives weighing 60 tons could have totally obliterated two military bases along with their contents,” reported Ynet News.

According to Iranian state-backed press, the two main IDF bases that Iran was targeting were the Nevitim Airbase in Beersheva and “a military installation on Mount Hermon.”

While the base on Mount Hermon was reportedly not struck, the Nevitim Airbase was indeed hit by five ballistic missiles, damaging a transport aircraft, a runway and several storage buildings.

Iran declared that it targeted these two bases because they have been used for attacks on Iranian assets in Syria. Furthermore, Iran attributed the airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, which resulted in the deaths of several Iranian military officials, to operations originating from Israel's Nevatim Airbase.

Israel’s air defense systems, in conjunction with military support from the United States, the United Kingdom and Jordan, successfully intercepted 99% of the drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles launched by Iran.

Damage from Iranian missile at Israel's Nevitim Air Base (Photo: IDF)

While the Iranian regime has stated it does not intend to directly attack Israel any further at this time, Iran's military chief, Maj. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, said: “Our response will be much larger than tonight's military action if Israel retaliates against Iran.”

While a military response from Israel against Iran is expected, no such response has been announced by the Israeli government.