Israel able to repel Iranian attack without need for major help from allies

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets, as seen from Ashkelon. Photograph: Amir Cohen/Reuters

Quiet planning by the US, UK and other allies to help Israel repel an Iranian long-range attack have been going on for several months or more – but most of the defensive effort appears to have been undertaken by Israeli air defence systems.

The only reported military engagements in support of Israel were a dozen interceptors fired by two US warships in the eastern Mediterranean, while Jordan said its own air defence systems and air force were involved in targeting Iranian missiles.