The Middle East is on the brink of a major escalation as tensions flare between Israel and Iran. After Iran launched 180 ballistic missiles at Israeli territory on Tuesday night, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate, declaring Tehran had made a “big mistake.” The missile barrage, targeting military bases around Tel Aviv, was Iran’s response to the deaths of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in recent Israeli operations.
Israel’s military swiftly responded, with airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut, Lebanon, early Wednesday. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the air force would continue to operate across the region, striking with “power” as it has over the past year. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF spokesperson, emphasized that Iran’s actions are pushing the Middle East “towards escalation.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran’s military actions were a “concluded” response unless Israel invited further retaliation. He indicated that Tehran had exercised “tremendous restraint” in recent months, particularly in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict.
The missile attack, which injured two Israelis, marks the second direct Iranian strike on Israel in 2024, following a similar attack in April. The Revolutionary Guards confirmed the attack was in retaliation for the Israeli assassinations of Nasrallah and Haniyeh.
Israel’s response is expected to target Iran’s strategic assets, including its oil industry and air defense systems. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed full support for Israel, stating that the U.S. military was actively involved in defending its ally.
The growing regional violence has sparked international concern. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to cease hostilities, calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent a broader conflict, particularly in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have killed hundreds.
As the conflict deepens, with Hezbollah and Hamas engaging in cross-border fire and Israeli strikes escalating in Gaza and Lebanon, the Middle East faces increasing instability. Both Iran and Israel have warned of severe consequences if further attacks occur, with the potential for a wider regional war looming large.
