Israel and Iran traded threats after Tehran’s first-ever direct attack on its arch-foe sharply heightened tensions in a region already on edge after six months of war in Gaza. The war in the besieged territory has revived the push for a two-state solution, with the UN Security Council preparing to vote Thursday on full United Nations membership for a Palestinian state.
The United States announced new sanctions on Iran’s missile and drone program after the attack on Israel, and the EU signaled it would levy new punitive measures as well. Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said that Iran would not get off “scot-free” after launching a barrage of missiles, drones, and rockets at Israel.
A day after the attack from Iran, Israel’s military chief vowed there would be “a response.” In response to accusations of aggression, Iran characterized the barrage as an act of self-defense following a deadly air strike on its consulate in Syria. US President Joe Biden reiterated commitment to Israel’s security but emphasized the need to prevent further conflict escalation.
World leaders urged restraint and de-escalation after the attack. Israel continued bombing targets in Gaza, and the Security Council is expected to take up the matter of full Palestinian UN membership on Thursday. Algerian-drafted resolution recommending full Palestinian membership is up for consideration but faces opposition from the United States.
Israel remains undecided on how to respond to Iran’s attack, with the possibility of targeting Iran directly or its interests and allies abroad. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, claimed responsibility for various attacks following the Iran-Israel conflict. Tensions are high in the region as Israel continues to fight Hamas in Gaza while fighting off attacks from Iran and its allies.
