Iran dismisses Israeli retaliation as ‘child’s play’
Iran has dismissed the reported Israeli retaliation for an unprecedented Iranian strike as akin to child’s play, as both sides on Saturday appeared to step back from a wider conflict stemming from the war in the Gaza Strip. But a deadly blast at an Iraqi military base emphasized the high tensions that persist, and witnesses in Gaza reported more strikes there.
Background
- Iran fired hundreds of missiles and drones in retaliation for a deadly April 1 airstrike blamed on Israel.
- Israel warned of retaliation and reportedly struck in the central province of Isfahan.
- No public comment from Israeli officials on the reported strikes.
Current Situation
Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian downplayed the Israeli retaliation, calling it the flight of “toys” rather than an attack. He stated that Iran will not respond unless there is a new Israeli adventure against Iran’s interests.
Violence involving Iran-backed groups has escalated in the Middle East, with tensions remaining high after the consulate attack and the Gaza war.
Iran launched its first-ever direct attack on Israel, which was mostly intercepted with minor damage reported.
International Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces international pressure over civilian casualties in Gaza. The Group of Seven foreign ministers opposed a full-scale military operation in Rafah due to its potential catastrophic consequences for civilians.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an end to the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East.
Outlook
With truce talks stalling, efforts are being made to de-escalate the conflict. Analysts suggest that further tit-for-tat violence could be avoided with careful measures.
Experts warn of the region being on the brink of all-out war, emphasizing the need for a balance of power between Iran and Israel to prevent further escalation.