Iran Launches Drone And Missile Attack On Israel, Risking Significant Escalation In Middle East

Iran has launched its first-ever direct attack on Israel by sending explosive drones and firing missiles, risking a major escalation in the Middle East. This has prompted the UN Security Council to schedule an emergency meeting for Sunday.

Israel's military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, stated on Saturday that Iran launched numerous ground-to-ground missiles towards Israel, the majority of which were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported detecting dozens of surface-to-surface missile launches from Iran aimed at Israeli territory.

Hagari disclosed that the Iranian missiles totaled over 200 drones and missiles, resulting in minor damage to a single Israeli military facility. Subsequently, the Israeli military retracted an earlier advisory for residents to prepare shelters, indicating the perceived cessation of the threat. Additionally, sources quoted an unnamed Israeli official stating that there would be a "significant response" to the attack.

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Iran's Retaliation

Iran has vowed to retaliate against what it labeled as an Israeli strike on its consulate in Damascus in April, which it referred to as "crimes." Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in the consulate attack.

The Iranian mission to the United Nations warned that if Israel makes another mistake, Iran's response will be significantly more severe. This statement followed an incident that killed seven Guards officers, including two senior commanders. Iran characterized its strike as punishment for Israeli actions and warned both Israel and the United States to stay away. However, Iran also stated that it now considers the matter concluded.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Iran's attack and expressed deep alarm regarding the genuine threat of a widespread escalation across the region, which could have devastating consequences.

U.S. President Joe Biden, who had previously cautioned Iran against an attack, shortened a visit to his home state of Delaware to convene with national security advisors in the White House Situation Room. Following the meeting, he reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Israel, stating, "Our commitment to Israel's security against threats from Iran and its proxies is ironclad." Biden emphasized this commitment after receiving an update on Iran's attacks against Israel.

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