Tensions between Israel and Iran have reached a critical point after Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles toward Israel in retaliation for the assassination of key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. Despite the large-scale missile barrage, Israel confirmed that the only fatality was a Palestinian man in the West Bank. Most of the missiles were intercepted by Israel’s advanced air defense systems, including the Iron Dome, with additional support from U.S. destroyers stationed in the region.
In response to the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning, stating that Iran had made a “big mistake” and would “pay the price.” He emphasized that Israel would strike back at a time and place of its choosing, signaling potential further escalation in the region. This sentiment was echoed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), with spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirming that Israel would conduct airstrikes across the Middle East as part of its retaliation strategy. The IDF also warned civilians in southern Lebanon, a Hezbollah stronghold, to evacuate their homes to avoid harm.
In Tehran, the missile strikes were celebrated by Hezbollah supporters, while Iran‘s Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed the attack was in “self-defense” against Israeli aggression. Tehran’s international airport was also temporarily closed, signaling a heightened state of alert in the country.
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The escalation comes at a time when the Middle East is already fraught with conflict, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah. Netanyahu’s remarks, combined with Israel’s promise of massive airstrikes, suggest that the situation may worsen, with both sides preparing for prolonged conflict. Analysts are closely watching to see how the international community, especially the U.S., responds to the escalating violence.