Israel has indicated that its conflict with Iran is not yet resolved, promising to retaliate after a major attack from Tehran last week. Defense minister Benny Gantz stated that Israel will form a regional alliance and “exact a price” from Iran going forward.
The comments come after over 300 Iranian drones and missiles were fired at multiple locations in Israel overnight. With help from allies including the US, UK and France, nearly all of the projectiles were successfully intercepted according to military reports.
United States forces have confirmed destroying around 80 attack drones and six ballistic missiles launched from Iran and Yemen which posed a threat to Israel. A statement reiterated commitment to defending regional partners against hostile actions.
While Israel signals its readiness to respond militarily, US President Biden advised Prime Minister Netanyahu against counterstrikes at this time. Neighboring nations Iraq, Jordan and Turkey have also weighed in, claiming they notified Israel in advance of the incoming attacks from Iran.
Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian maintains the drone/missile operation served as retaliation for an alleged Israeli airstrike on its embassy in Syria. Turkey in particular stressed being aware Iran sought a proportional reaction and not further escalation.
As tensions between the arch rivals remain high, global powers will be watching closely for signs the situation could deteriorate or whether channels of communication may yet offer a path towards de-escalation. For Israeli, US and other interests in the region, ensuring stability amid volatile dynamics with Iran remains a constant challenge.
