Tensions in the Middle East are high following recent Israeli airstrikes on military sites in Iran. The United States has issued a strong warning to Tehran, urging it to avoid retaliating against these strikes. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reached out to his Israeli counterpart, emphasising that this latest round of airstrikes could serve as a step toward de-escalating ongoing tensions.
The U.S. Pentagon described Saturday’s strikes as a response intended to close a cycle of hostilities between Israel and Iran. President Joe Biden echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that these actions would bring an end to months of escalating conflict. Iran, however, downplayed the severity of the attack, stating that it is committed to maintaining regional peace and security.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that Israel’s targeted strikes in Iran were based on national security priorities, refuting any suggestions of foreign influence.
Reports indicated that Israel avoided striking Iran's energy facilities, although Netanyahu affirmed that the choice of targets remained entirely within Israel's strategic interest.
Military experts have reported that the airstrikes likely focused on key sites linked to Iran’s missile program. Satellite images suggest that the strikes hit facilities related to ballistic missile production, specifically at Parchin, a large military complex near Tehran. According to a former UN weapons inspector, these strikes might have impacted Iran’s capacity to mass-produce missiles.
In the wake of the attack, Iran held a series of high-level meetings in Tehran to discuss potential responses. While Tehran’s official statement minimised the impact, Iranian officials confirmed that Revolutionary Guards facilities in and around the capital were also targeted.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a warning against any future attacks, affirming the nation’s resilience and readiness to protect its territory. Additionally, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi signalled a firm stance, stating that Iran holds no limitations when it comes to defending its interests.
Meanwhile, Israel appears to anticipate no immediate large-scale response from Iran, as the Israeli military eased certain safety measures for residents in the north.
This move signals a degree of confidence in Israel’s deterrence efforts, despite warnings from Hezbollah. The Iran-backed Lebanese militant group advised residents of certain northern Israeli settlements to evacuate, claiming these areas could become targets due to the presence of Israeli troops.
Further complicating matters, Iran's mission to the United Nations alleged that the Israeli airstrikes were carried out through Iraqi airspace and accused the United States of being complicit.
According to Iran, U.S. control over Iraqi airspace facilitated Israel's operation, a claim that underscores the broader geopolitical tensions in the region.
Amid this unfolding crisis, the issue of Middle East stability has made its way into the U.S. presidential campaign. Candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump both addressed the airstrikes, with Trump questioning Biden’s response, while Harris advocated for a de-escalation of hostilities in the region.
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