Iran has launched aerial drones at Israel, commencing a widely anticipated reprisal attack.

Israel’s Channel 12 TV, quoted by the BBC, said the salvo is expected to reach Israel at around 02:00 on Sunday (00:00 GMT).

It said Israeli forces were on high alert and “monitoring all targets.”

Iran had vowed to retaliate for an attack on its consulate in Syria on April 1, which killed seven military officers, including a top commander.

It accused Israel of carrying out the attack, which Israel has neither confirmed nor denied.

Shortly before news of Iran’s drone launch, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country’s “jdefensive systems” were deployed.

“We are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively. The State of Israel is strong. The IDF is strong. The public is strong.” We appreciate the US standing alongside Israel and the support of Britain, France and many other countries,” he said.

The development comes amid heightened hostility between Iran and Israel.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden returned to Washington on Saturday “to consult with his national security team about events in the Middle East,” according to the Guardian.

Earlier, President Biden had vowed that the US would stand by Israel against its aggressor.