US news outlets including CNN have reported that government officials say US air defense systems in the Middle East have intercepted some Iranian drones.

But the sources did not specify how and where the US intercepted the drones.

The White House National Security Council spokesperson said that Iran has begun an air attack against Israel on Saturday.

Adrienne Watson said in a statement that "President Biden is being regularly updated on the situation by his national security team and will meet with them ... at the White House."

She added, the team is "in constant communication with Israeli officials as well as other partners and allies" and the attack is "likely to unfold over a number of hours."

The spokesperson said: "President Biden has been clear: our support for Israel's security is ironclad. The US will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran."