As tensions escalated in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, a series of dramatic events unfolded, heightening fears of a broader regional war. The day began with an attack on Israeli territory by Iran, followed by an aggressive military response from Israel aimed at Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Both nations engage in military actions and heated exchanges, resulting in an unstable situation that draws international attention and concern.
In the early hours of Wednesday, Israel conducts airstrikes targeting Hezbollah sites in the southern suburbs of Beirut, issuing multiple evacuation orders for buildings in the affected area. The strikes follow Iran’s launch of over 180 ballistic missiles at various targets across Israel, marking a significant escalation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the security cabinet, stating that Iran has made a serious mistake and will face consequences. The military describes the missile attack as significant.
Will Israel and its allies exercise restraint?
While no injuries are reported in Israel from the missile attacks, one person is killed in the West Bank, and missiles reportedly fall in Ramallah. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, declares that the missile actions conclude unless Israel provokes further retaliation, urging Israel’s allies to exercise restraint to avoid escalating tensions.
Reports indicate that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, ordered the missile strikes against Israel, with senior officials suggesting Tehran is prepared for any potential retaliation. The Iranian mission to the United Nations defends the missile launches as a response to terrorist acts by Israel. In the eastern Mediterranean, US destroyers intercept multiple missiles launched by Iran, while British Defense Secretary John Healey confirms British forces assist in efforts to prevent further escalation.
Earlier on Tuesday, a shooting and knife attack in Jaffa resulted in six fatalities and ten injuries, with the assailants targeting civilians shortly before the missile launch, as CCTV footage captured them emerging from a train to carry out the assault.
NewsX exclusive on Israel – Iran war
NewsX held an exclusive chat featuring prominent guests, including Zameer Abbas, a scholar from AI Mustafa University in Qum, Iran, and Mitra Jashni, an Iranian artist. The discussion focused on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, with Abbas highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Jashni emphasizing the ideological battle against the Islamic Republic. Their insights shed light on the complex dynamics of the ongoing tensions in the region.
Abbas criticized Israel as a “colony” and “an occupier” responsible for the deaths of 10,000 children in the last year and more than 50,000 overall.