Israel launched a series of ‘extensive’ airstrikes on Iran over the weekend, targeting military sites in what they claimed was retaliation for previous attacks. The White House has urged Iran to avoid direct retaliation, warning of potential consequences if they do. The United States President, Joe Biden, was kept informed as the Israeli operation unfolded, with the US reaffirming its support for Israel’s security and right to self-defence.
The airstrikes by Israel on Iran were said to have been precise and targeted, aiming at missile manufacturing facilities and other military sites. The Israeli military stated that their mission had been accomplished, but warned of further responses if Iran escalates the situation. Iran reported limited damage from the airstrikes, with explosions heard in Tehran and military bases in several provinces targeted.
Following the Israeli strikes, Iran closed its airspace, and commercial flights were rerouted away from the region. In Syria, reports indicated missile attacks on military sites, with some missiles intercepted by air defences. Details on casualties were not immediately available from the attacks in either Iran or Syria.
The tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated in recent weeks, with retaliatory attacks happening back and forth. Israel’s actions have been framed as defensive measures against Iranian aggression, with the Israeli military emphasising their right to respond to threats. Iran, on the other hand, has downplayed the impact of the Israeli strikes, highlighting limited damage and attempting to shift focus away from the conflict.
The situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with both Israel and Iran standing firm in their positions. The international community, including the US, has called for restraint to prevent further escalation and bloodshed in the region. As the world watches closely, the hope is for diplomatic solutions to prevail and for calm to be restored in the midst of heightened tensions.