Israel Launches Retaliatory Airstrikes Against Iran

In a predictable turn of events, Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, a response anticipated since Iran’s missile attack on October 1st. Israel had signaled the possibility of retaliation, and the question now is whether Iran will escalate further.

President Joe Biden had urged Israel to avoid targeting Iran’s critical nuclear, oil, and gas infrastructure, advice that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heeded. The United States hopes that by focusing solely on military targets, Israel’s actions will not provoke another immediate retaliation from Iran.

Yet, the cycle of strikes and counterstrikes is difficult to break, as each side fears appearing weakened if it doesn’t respond. Such actions risk a steady escalation, inching both nations closer to broader conflict.

Iran’s initial missile strikes were, in part, a response to Israeli operations targeting Iran’s regional allies, particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel now claims that the October 1st missile attack was the latest in a series of ongoing provocations, including strikes from Iran’s allies and proxy forces.

Simultaneously, Israel has intensified its offensive in northern Gaza. United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has condemned the military operation, calling it the “darkest moment of Gaza’s war,” citing the impact on civilians facing siege, bombardment, and severe shortages.

Some observers speculate that Israel’s recent focus on Iran might be a strategic diversion from Gaza, shifting the international spotlight. While it’s impossible to confirm, the possibility remains.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Iran not to retaliate, speaking at a press conference in Samoa. “Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian aggression,” Starmer said. “But we must avoid further regional escalation and urge all sides to exercise restraint.”

On the Israeli side, military spokesperson Daniel Hagari outlined the overnight strikes, emphasizing that Iran “has paid the price” for its actions. Hagari stated that Israel’s strikes hit missile manufacturing sites, anti-aircraft defenses, and other aerial assets, all selected from an extensive target list.

“This is a clear message,” Hagari warned. “Those who threaten the State of Israel will pay a heavy price.”