By Iran Retaliatory Strikes
Iran has launched a barrage of drones and missiles at Israel, as confirmed by the country’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), following accusations from Israel of Tehran’s involvement in recent attacks.
US and Israel Confirm Aerial Assault
Amid escalating tensions, the United States and Israel have confirmed an ongoing aerial attack on Israeli territory, with both Jordan and Iraq closing their airspace in response. Under the operation “True Promise,” the IRGC stated on Saturday that it had deployed numerous drones and missiles in retaliation for what it deemed “Israeli crimes.”
Israel’s Preparations and Responses
Israel has been on high alert since its strike on Damascus earlier in the month, anticipating retaliatory action from Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has affirmed Israel’s readiness for a direct attack from Iran, while Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant has emphasized the monitoring of planned attacks against Israel by Iran and its allies in the region.
US Support for Israel
United States President Joe Biden has pledged unwavering support for Israel against Iranian aggression, with the White House confirming continuous communication between Biden and Israeli officials. Biden’s National Security Council spokesperson, Adrienne Watson, reiterated the president’s commitment to standing with Israel in the face of threats from Iran.
Regional Response and Implications
Syria has elevated its defence measures, deploying ground-to-air defence systems around its capital and major bases in anticipation of potential Israeli strikes. Meanwhile, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Israel have temporarily closed their airspace in response to the escalating situation.
Awaiting Potential Threats
As tensions mount, Israel remains vigilant, with its military prepared to respond to any threats. The country braces for the arrival of Iranian drones, equipped with explosives, which could take approximately nine hours to reach Israeli airspace.
Continued Regional Instability
The conflict adds to ongoing tensions in the region, with Israel’s long-standing conflict with Gaza further complicating the situation. Recent months have seen increased hostilities, with Israeli targets facing attacks from various fronts, including Yemen and Iraq.
Further Provocations
In a separate incident earlier on Saturday, Iranian armed forces seized a container ship linked to Israel near the Strait of Hormuz, indicating a continuation of hostilities beyond the immediate aerial assault.
As the situation develops, the international community closely monitors the evolving dynamics in the Middle East, with concerns over the potential for further escalation and destabilization in the region.
Source: Al Jazeera News
