Israel’s Military Chief Vows Response to Iran’s Attack
Israel’s military chief has vowed to respond to Iran’s unprecedented attack on his country, even after appeals for restraint poured in from world leaders fearing wider regional conflict. During six months of war between Israel and Iran-backed militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Tehran’s proxies around the region have stepped up attacks on the Jewish state and its allies, saying they are acting in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Tensions were already high before Iran launched its first-ever assault on Israeli territory, firing hundreds of missiles and drones in retaliation for a deadly April 1 strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus.
Serious Discussion at the Israel Defense Forces
“This launch of so many [Iranian] missiles, cruise missiles and UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) into the territory of the State of Israel will be met with a response,” Israeli armed forces head Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi said, addressing troops at the Nevatim airbase, which was hit in Iran’s Saturday night barrage. The Israeli army has said the vast majority of the weapons were shot down — with the help of the United States and other allies — and the attack caused only minimal damage.
International Reactions and Diplomacy
Western governments, including those that supported Israel in its defense, have warned against an escalation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with his war Cabinet to discuss next steps. Iran has said it would consider the matter “concluded” unless Israel retaliated, expressing willingness to exercise restraint. The US has appealed to China to use its influence over Tehran to manage tensions in the Middle East.
New Developments and Responses
Israel issued its first official comment on the strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria, stating that those targeted were involved in terrorism against Israel. Iran has portrayed its retaliatory missile and drone barrage as the beginning of a new strategy. The International Atomic Energy Agency revealed that Iran temporarily closed its nuclear facilities over security concerns after the attack.
US President Joe Biden assured Netanyahu that Washington would not offer military support for any retaliation against Iran. Foreign leaders, including the UK Foreign Secretary and the French President, have urged restraint. The US House Speaker announced a potential vote on a military aid package for Israel, which has faced delays in the House of Representatives.
