Iran Warns of Larger Response to Israeli Attack
The recent mass drone and missile attack on Israeli territory by Iran has escalated tensions in the Middle East, with threats of a much larger response if Israel or the United States retaliate. The attack, launched in response to a suspected Israeli strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria, resulted in minimal damage in Israel as most of the missiles and drones were intercepted with the help of the US, Britain, and Jordan.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need for unity in the face of the attack, stating, “We intercepted, we repelled, together we shall win.” Despite thwarting the attack, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that the military campaign was not over and that they must be prepared for any scenario. An unnamed Israeli official hinted at a significant response to the attack, indicating that tensions remain high in the region.
Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian claimed that the attack on Israel was limited and for self-defense, informing the United States and neighboring countries of their planned strikes in advance. Global powers and Arab states have urged restraint to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
Iran’s army chief of staff, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, issued a warning that any retaliation from Israel would result in a much larger response from Iran. He also cautioned Washington that its bases could be targeted if it supported Israel in retaliating against Iran. US President Joe Biden reiterated his support for Israel but did not announce any immediate military response, opting for diplomatic coordination with Western allies.
Analysts have debated the motives behind Iran’s attack, speculating whether it was intended to cause significant damage in Israel or to save face domestically while avoiding a full-scale war. The seizure of an Israel-linked cargo ship by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz further underscored the risks of a wider conflict on the world economy.
The conflict between Israel and Iran has spilled over into other fronts with Iran-aligned groups in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. Hezbollah fired rockets at an Israeli base, prompting Israeli retaliation deep inside Lebanon. Yemen’s Houthis voiced support for Iran’s attack, while internal discontent in Israel over the government’s handling of the war in Gaza adds pressure on Netanyahu to respond decisively.
In Jerusalem, Israelis expressed fear during the attack but differed on how the country should respond. Some believe that Israel has been given a mandate to retaliate swiftly, while others are concerned about the potential consequences of escalating tensions. In Iran, state television showed celebrations over the attack, but some citizens expressed worries about the repercussions of provoking Israel.
As the situation continues to unfold, diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further escalation and restore stability in the region. The UN Security Council is set to meet to address the crisis, emphasizing the need for dialogue and de-escalation to avoid a full-blown conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States.