Iran carried out an “unprecedented” drone and missile assault on Israel in response to an earlier strike on its consular building in Syria’s Damascus. The attack, comprising over 200 drones and missiles, targetted the Israeli position and has raised tensions in the Middle East region amidst the ongoing conflicts and crisis in Gaza.
Here’s What We Know So Far:
- The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) has claimed the responsibility for firing dozens of missiles at Israeli targets in retaliation for an attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus on April 1. This has marked Iran’s first direct attack on Israeli territory.
- According to Reuters, the attacks commenced at around 20:00 GMT on Saturday. Explosions reverberated across Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and West Jerusalem, while air raid sirens blared in more than 720 locations as Israeli forces attempted to intercept the Iranian projectiles.
- The Israeli military reported that Iran launched, “200 killer drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles” at it, with the majority intercepted outside the country’s borders, aided by US and UK forces.
- However, a few projectiles struck targets within Israel, causing minor damages at a base in the southern part of the country and injuring a child, some reports say a boy and some a girl, aged 6 or 8—no reports of casualties reported so far.
- Iran’s mission to the UN had asserted that it considered the matter of the consulate attack concluded and warned of a “considerably more severe” response should Israel repeat “such actions”.
- An emergency meeting of the UN security council, requested by Israel, is scheduled for Sunday at 4 PM New York time, 16:00 GMT, (9:30 PM IST).
- In response to the escalating tensions, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Israel have temporarily closed their respective airspaces. Several airlines have suspended flights in the region.
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FAQs
What Is The Conflict Between Iran And Israel?
Iran and Israel have a long history of disputes, with various factors contributing to the conflict, the recent attack by Tehran comes in response to the bombing it said Israel carried out in Damascus on its consulate.
Initially, both nations enjoyed relatively warm relations due to common treats, however, tensions escalated over time. Particularly as Iranian Islamists began championing the Palestinian cause which they perceive as “oppressed”.
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Has Iran Declared War On Israel?
While Iran’s recent attack on Israel marks a significant escalation, it hasn’t declared war on Iran yet. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are awaited.
Will Israel Retaliate Against Iran?
Given the severity of Iran’s attack, Israel is likely to respond, although the US has extended “ironclad” support to Tel Aviv and has said it stands by the Israeli people. The nature and timing of any retaliation remain unclear at the moment.
What Could Be Possible Outcome Of Iran-Israel Conflict?
The conflict between Iran and Israel has the potential to escalate further, drawing in regional and international power, however, any comments on the possible outcomes are subject to recent steps and further developments that need to be monitored.
Where Are Iran And Israel On World Map?
Iran is located in the Middle East, bordered by Iraq, Turkey, and Pakistan. Israel is situated in the eastern Mediterranean region, bordered by Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt.
Can Crude Oil Prices Increase After Iran's Attack On Israel?
Considering the current situation and escalating tensions between the two nations, many media reports citing analysts suggest that there is a possibility the prices of crude oil may rise. According to Moneycontrol, analysts have predicted that if Tehran's attack results in a wider war, Brent crude prices could rise above $100 per barrel.
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