On Saturday, October 26, Israel launched targeted strikes on Iranian military sites in response to recent missile attacks attributed to Tehran. As explosions reverberated across Tehran, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that these “precise strikes” were initiated after months of sustained threats from Iran.
The operation was prompted by an October 1 missile attack from Iran, which Israel has condemned as a clear act of aggression. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had previously warned of a “deadly, precise and surprising” response to any threats against Israel, indicating the nation’s preparedness for both defensive and offensive actions.
This escalation occurs amidst a broader regional conflict, with Israel actively countering Iran-backed groups such as Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, following the October 7 Hamas assault that resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 civilians in Israel. Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari urged residents to remain “alert and vigilant,” highlighting the heightened state of readiness among Israel’s defense forces.
Recent high-profile incidents, including Israeli strikes that eliminated key figures like Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iranian Revolutionary Guards general Abbas Nilforoushan, have intensified tensions. Although explosions were reported around Tehran Saturday night, Iranian state media have yet to confirm their cause, and no significant fires have been reported at vital sites.
The United States, which was informed of Israel’s strike plans, clarified its non-involvement, with National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett describing the operation as a “self-defense measure.” Additionally, Syrian state media reported that air defenses intercepted “hostile targets” near Damascus, potentially linked to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
As Israel intensifies its operations against what it terms the “axis of resistance,” concerns are growing over the possibility of a broader regional conflict that could involve multiple nations and factions across the Middle East.
