Iran took an unprecedented step on Saturday evening by striking Israel directly with military strikes launched from Iranian territory, according to Israeli and U.S. defense officials. These missiles and drones came roaring from Iran’s soil directly at Israel causing significant escalation in an already volatile Middle East environment. The strike marked another important escalation.
Israel’s military confirmed that most incoming projectiles were intercepted with advanced air defense systems like Iron Dome and Arrow missile defense system, though some missiles reportedly struck Israeli territory, damaging infrastructure and injuring several civilians; authorities have not reported any fatalities yet.
Iran stated the attack as an act of revenge in response to an airstrike on their consulate in Damascus, Syria that killed several senior military advisors from their side. Tehran has blamed Israel for this consulate strike — though neither it nor any official representative from Israeli has officially acknowledged responsibility.
Iranian military spokesperson stated: “Our operation was a legitimate act of self-defense; we targeted military sites used to plan and execute aggression against Iranian interests.”
After the attack, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called an emergency meeting of his war cabinet and promised a strong response. In a televised address he stated: “Whoever harms us — we will harm them”. In addition to being prepared for any scenario and stand-off scenario imaginable.
The United States quickly condemned Iran’s attack and reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s security. President Joe Biden held consultations with Israeli and European leaders, warning of further escalation which may spark regional conflict. U.S. forces operating nearby intercepted some projectiles aimed at Israel.
United Nations and European Union officials have both voiced calls for immediate de-escalation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned both nations to show maximum restraint, warning of an impending wider war in the Middle East.
Iran launched a direct strike from its territory against Israeli soil for the first time ever this past Friday – marking a dramatic shift from previous conflicts, when conflicts were waged using proxy forces. This unprecedented event may radically change military and diplomatic strategies throughout the region.
As tensions in the Middle East increase and international bodies work to contain any fallout, millions of civilians throughout this region brace themselves for what could lead to wider and more devastating conflict.