Israel vows to retaliate against Iran. Iran claims its attack on Israel was in retaliation for an alleged strike on its embassy by Israel and seeks to avoid further escalation.
Amidst international calls for restraint, the Israeli War Cabinet convened once more to deliberate on a measured response to Iran’s recent drone and missile strike.
On Monday, Prime Minister Netanyahu gathered his war council for the second time in less than 24 hours to address Iran’s weekend assault, as disclosed by a government insider. While Military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi affirmed Israel’s intent to retaliate, specific plans were not disclosed.
Speaking from the Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, which suffered damage from Saturday’s attack, Halevi asserted, “This barrage of missiles, cruise missiles, and drones into Israeli territory will not go unanswered.”
Iran portrayed its attack as a response to an alleged Israeli airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1, signaling a desire to avoid further escalation. However, despite causing minimal casualties and damage, the incident heightened concerns of a broader conflict between the historical adversaries and raised fears of spillover effects from the Gaza war.
President Biden assured Netanyahu of U.S. support in repelling the Iranian assault while pledging to refrain from direct involvement in any Israeli counter-offensive. Amid ongoing clashes between Israel and Iran-aligned groups across multiple fronts, global leaders urged de-escalation, echoing appeals from Washington and the United Nations.
White House spokesman John Kirby refrained from divulging specifics of Biden’s talks with Netanyahu but emphasized the U.S. stance against war with Iran. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reiterated America’s commitment to defending Israel while advocating against further escalation.
Russia and China also urged restraint, with the Kremlin emphasizing the mutual disinterest in further escalation and China expressing confidence in Iran’s ability to manage the situation while maintaining regional stability.
Iran’s attack, following the killing of seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards officers, including senior commanders, in Damascus, highlighted the precarious situation in the region. As tensions persisted, the international community remained vigilant, striving to prevent further turmoil while safeguarding peace and stability in the Middle East.
