Israel has vowed to retaliate after Iran launched a missile attack on its territory, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations.
The attack, which occurred late Tuesday, saw most of the missiles intercepted by Israeli defense systems, but Iran has warned of further strikes on Israeli infrastructure if its territory is targeted in return.
Advertorial
In response, Israeli officials have promised swift action, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that Iran will “pay” for the aggression.
Israel also launched retaliatory strikes, targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut, Lebanon, as part of a broader regional response.
The missile barrage, which included hypersonic weapons according to Iranian state media, was reportedly in retaliation for Israel’s killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in separate incidents.
Advertorial
Two Israelis were reported injured, while a Palestinian man in the West Bank was killed by debris from the attack.
US President Joe Biden expressed strong support for Israel, with his administration discussing potential responses to Iran’s aggression.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin condemned the missile launch as an “outrageous act of aggression,” while National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan warned of “severe consequences” for Iran.
Advertorial
The conflict marks Iran’s second direct strike on Israel this year, following a previous missile and drone attack in April.
Israeli military forces have responded by launching additional strikes in Lebanon, further intensifying the regional conflict.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent the conflict from spiraling further.
However, Iranian officials have insisted their missile strike was a justified response to Israel’s actions and have threatened to intensify attacks if provoked.
Advertorial
