Israel has pledged to respond to Iran’s largest missile assault on the country, intensifying fears of a broader escalation in the Middle East. On October 1, 2024, Iran launched dozens of missiles toward Israel in retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and others, just hours after Israel initiated a “limited and localized” ground operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) estimated that Iran fired around 180 “projectiles,” intercepting many, though some hit the ground in Israel and the occupied West Bank. The attack resulted in at least one fatality and several injuries, but the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

Key Points:

• Fears of Escalation: Iran’s attack raises the stakes during an already tense period. World leaders have expressed concerns that the conflict between Israel and Iran-backed groups, such as Hezbollah and Hamas, could spiral into a broader regional war. Much focus is now on Israel’s potential response.
• Israeli Response: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Iran made a “big mistake” and will “pay” for its actions. He emphasized Israel’s resolve to defend itself and retaliate against its enemies.
• Concerns Over Further Strikes: US and Arab diplomats are particularly worried about the possibility of Israel striking Iran directly, potentially targeting its nuclear facilities. Officials from France, Britain, Germany, and the European Union condemned Iran’s attack, warning of the risk of escalating the conflict.
• US Involvement: President Joe Biden praised the role of the US in thwarting the missile assault, calling the attack “defeated and ineffective.” He affirmed US support for Israel but stated that discussions were ongoing regarding an appropriate response.
• Iran’s Targets: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for targeting three Israeli military bases near Tel Aviv. According to CNN’s analysis, many missiles appeared to have landed near the headquarters of Mossad, Nevatim Air Base, and Tel Nof Air Base. Israel has not yet commented on these claims.
• Israeli Counterattacks: Israel responded by striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut. The IDF indicated that its operational capabilities were unaffected by the Iranian strikes. A spokesperson reiterated Israel’s commitment to pursuing Hezbollah and any threats to Israeli citizens, emphasizing that Iran had committed a “serious act” that risks further escalation in the Middle East. Israel plans to act when and where it deems appropriate.