Amid a significant escalation in tensions, Iran has launched nearly 200 missiles into Israel, prompting retaliation and warning from both sides. One man has been reported dead in the West Bank, while Hezbollah targets are being struck in the Lebanese capital. This is a developing story and will be updated as details emerge.
Background
The current escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel has roots in a decades-long conflict. Israel views Iran as a significant threat due to its nuclear program, support for militant groups in the region, and its hostility towards Israel. On the other hand, Iran accuses Israel of destabilizing the region and assassinating Iranian scientists.
In recent years, tensions have spiked over Iran's nuclear program. Israel has repeatedly stated that it will not tolerate Iran developing nuclear weapons, while Iran insists its program is for peaceful purposes.
Recent Events
On January 30, 2023, tensions escalated significantly when Iran launched nearly 200 missiles into Israel. The strikes were a response to an Israeli airstrike that targeted a military base in Syria, killing seven Iranian personnel.
Israel intercepted over 90% of the missiles with its Iron Dome defense system. However, one man was killed in the West Bank when a missile struck his home.
In retaliation, Israel launched airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in the Lebanese capital, Beirut. There were no reported casualties in the Lebanese strikes.
Warning and Retaliation
Both Iran and Israel have issued warnings of further retaliation. Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said that Iran "will not hesitate to defend itself and punish the aggressors."
Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that Israel "will continue to take strong action to protect our citizens and our sovereignty."
Current Developments
The situation remains tense, with both sides on high alert. It is unclear whether further military action will follow. International mediators are working to de-escalate the conflict.
What is the reason for the current escalation in tensions?
How many missiles were launched by Iran?
What was the response of Israel?
Were there any casualties?
What is the current status of the conflict?
The recent escalation of conflict between Iran and Israel has brought the US and UN into the picture. Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel, who retaliated with airstrikes in Lebanon. As the situation intensifies, President Biden and the UN Security Council have responded, with Biden affirming support for Israel and the Council scheduling an emergency meeting. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has also warned of consequences for Iran's actions.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out a massive retaliatory attack on Israel, launching around 200 missiles at key military and security targets. The attack, which marked a significant escalation of hostilities between the two nations, was reportedly in response to the killings of key Iranian and Hezbollah commanders by Israel. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, world leaders have condemned the attack and called for de-escalation to prevent further violence.
In a newly released briefing, the Israel Defense Forces revealed that their special forces have been actively operating in southern Lebanon since November last year. Their main goal has been to locate and destroy any tunnels and infrastructure used by the terrorist group Hezbollah. The briefing showcased the extensive undercover operations that the commandos have been conducting, including the use of body cameras and air strikes on tunnel locations. This comes as Israel announces a ground incursion into southern Lebanon in an effort to prevent Hezbollah's planned "Conquer the Galilee" invasion.
In a shocking revelation, former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad claims that the head of Israel's national intelligence agency Mossad, who was responsible for multiple operations in Iran including stealing nuclear documents and assassinating nuclear scientists, was actually an Israeli national and a double agent. Ahmadinejad also revealed that Iran's secret services had created a special unit to counter Mossad's activities in Iran, which was headed by the alleged Mossad agent. This news has further fueled tensions between Iran and Israel, as well as raised questions about the effectiveness of Iran's intelligence services.
In response to Iran’s missile attack on Israel, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stern warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, declaring that Iran was not a belligerent but stood firmly against any threat. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, also spoke defiantly, suggesting that the attacks would intensify, while Israel’s Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed over 150 missiles launched by Iran and sent millions of Israelis into bomb shelters. As both sides prepare for further action, tensions remain high in the region.
The Indian Navy ships of the First Training Squadron have arrived in the port city of Bandar Abbas, Iran for a joint training deployment in the Persian Gulf. This visit marks an important step in strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Iran. During the visit, the ships will participate in various activities to enhance maritime security and interoperability between the two navies. This visit highlights India's commitment to promoting regional cooperation in line with the vision of SAGAR.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated further as Israel has launched a ground invasion in southern Lebanon against the armed group. This marks a significant escalation in the long-running conflict and has raised concerns about a potential regional war. Despite facing heavy blows from Israel, including the killing of its leader, Hezbollah remains defiant and continues to fire rockets into northern Israel. The Israeli military says the operation is aimed at ensuring the safe return of displaced residents near the border, but there are fears that this could be the beginning of a wider campaign against the group.
Israeli Prime Minister condemns Iran's missile attack on Israel during a phone call with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The attack, which has caused no reported injuries, has sparked a ground operation by Israeli troops in Lebanon. The Israeli PM is calling for international action against Iran's aggression.
Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, the US has issued a warning about an imminent missile attack from Iran against Israel. The White House stated that the US is actively supporting Israel’s preparations to defend against the attack and warned that Iran would face severe consequences if it were to launch a direct military attack. While the IDF has not yet identified any aerial threat from Iran, Israel’s Prime Minister has urged civilians to follow safety instructions. The US military had previously warned Iran against escalating the conflict, and recent events have sparked concerns of a larger conflict in the region.