The longstanding tensions between Israel and Iran reached a new peak on Saturday, October 26, when Israel launched missile strikes targeting Iranian military sites. This retaliatory action follows 24 days of escalating hostility, with Israel focusing on precision strikes against military installations in Iran’s capital, Tehran, and in Karaj.
Seven missiles were reported to have struck the targets in response to continuous missile strikes from Iran, amplifying the strained situation in West Asia. The United States has voiced its support for Israel’s actions, viewing them as an act of self-defense.
Israel Justifies Strikes in Self-Defense
Israel Defense Force (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagar confirmed that the strikes were a response to Iran’s missile attacks, which began on October 1. He said that Israel has faced assaults on seven fronts by Iran and its allies since October 2023, positioning Israel's recent action as an essential step in self-defense. "This is for Israel's self-defense," said Hagar, adding that at least seven missiles were deployed in these countermeasures aimed at neutralizing military threats in Iran.
Explosions Near Tehran Airport
Iranian government media reported explosions close to Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport as part of the Israeli attack. While Iran acknowledged the missile strikes, it sought to downplay their impact. Iran said its active air defense systems had helped mitigate the threat. The missile attack has led Israel, Iran, and Iraq to close their respective airspaces in a preventative move, with flights in Iran’s airspace swiftly rerouted during the attack.
U.S. Backs Israel’s Retaliatory Action
The United States has officially backed Israel’s recent strikes. White House National Security Council spokesperson Shawn Savet affirmed that Israel’s actions were a justified response to Iran’s attacks. According to Savet, Israel alerted the White House about the intended counter-attack beforehand. The U.S. position emphasizes Israel’s right to defend its sovereignty, reflecting the strong strategic alignment between the two countries in this volatile context.
Iran Temporarily Closes Airspace
In response to the attack, Iran promptly closed its airspace until Saturday night. A CNN report indicated that four planes were flying in Iran’s airspace during the missile strikes, which were immediately redirected. Iran had previously cautioned Israel against further aggression, asserting that any additional strikes would prompt a swift response. This airspace closure and Iran’s warning underscore the heightened alert and preparation on both sides as tensions simmer.
U.S. Monitors Increasing Tension in the Region
The U.S. administration remains actively involved in monitoring this rapidly intensifying conflict in West Asia. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that while Israel has the right to self-defense, the retaliatory actions could escalate regional tensions. Over recent weeks, Israel has ramped up its military responses against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which further contributes to the escalating security situation. Israel’s Defense Minister has previously cautioned that any hostile forces attacking Israel would face severe repercussions.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran poses significant risks to regional stability, and diplomatic efforts may be necessary to prevent further escalation.