Israel launches missile attacks on Iran

Several senior Western diplomats believe the Israeli airstrike in response to 350 projectiles fired at Israeli territory on Saturday is considered proportionate and will not escalate the situation in the Middle East. However, some commentators express concern that the incident may lead to a broader regional war. Israel and Iran downplayed the significance of the apparent Israeli airstrike near an Iranian air base and nuclear site. Some Israelis have called for stronger action against Iran. Iran claims it shot down three quadcopters launched from within its territory, and there have been reports of explosions at military sites in Syria. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that Iran's nuclear sites remain untouched. President Biden is advocating for de-escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict, while Iran activated its air defense systems after reports of explosions in Isfahan province and has not assigned blame for the airstrike. Israeli officials have neither confirmed nor denied their involvement in the suspected attack on Iran. Additionally, at least one far-right member in Israel is reportedly pushing for further action against Iran.

According to various sources, including Iranian military commanders and state media, three drones were shot down by Iranian air defenses near Isfahan. Israeli officials have not confirmed involvement but have been cautious in their response. US broadcasters CNN and CBS News reported that Israel had carried out a military strike in Iran, while Australian and American officials urged both sides to exercise restraint. Explosions were also reported near the city of Tabriz. Despite signs of de-escalation, tensions remain high between Israel and Iran. The two countries have been engaged in a shadow war across the Middle East for years, with attacks by land, sea, air, and in cyberspace.

There have been conflicting reports about explosions at Isfahan airport in central Iran. Reports from both Israeli and Iranian sources indicate that Israeli missiles have hit a site in Iran, with Iran claiming to have successfully shot down drones. The United States was not involved in the attack but was notified by Israel. Israeli officials have stated that the strike was intended to signal to Iran that Israel has the ability to strike inside the country, with reports suggesting that air defense systems were used for interception. There are also reports of Israeli troop movements near Gaza's borders and a potential ground offensive in Rafah. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has warned Israel of immediate and maximum retaliation if Israel takes any further military action.