Israel Launches Preemptive Attack on Iran Amid Soaring Tensions
Israel has announced a 'preemptive' strike on Iran in an attempt to 'eliminate threats' to its territory, according to multiple international sources including Clarin, South China Morning Post, and Fox News. The Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, declared a nationwide state of emergency following the strike, warning its citizens of the potential for retaliatory action from Iran.
Context and Background
This military action comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States over Tehran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as reported by Deutsche Welle and The Hindu. The move follows repeated U.S.-Israeli warnings that they would strike again if Iran continued with its nuclear and missile programs, a narrative supported by Japan Times.
The Strike and its Aftermath
Videos released by Iranian media and reported by RT (Russia Today) show damage in Tehran due to the attacks. Journalists from ANSA have reported two columns of black smoke visible in Tehran. Following the attack, air raid sirens were sounded across Israel to prepare the public for the possibility of an Iranian missile attack, as noted by South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera English.
The attack was reportedly prepared in cooperation with the US, as suggested by RT (Russia Today) and Kyiv Independent. In response, Iran has retaliated by launching missiles towards Israel, as reported by Folha de S.Paulo and Middle East Eye.
International Reactions
The international community has reacted with trepidation to the escalating conflict. Iran's Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the Israeli and US airstrikes and declared a state of readiness for defense, as reported by IRNA English. Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei asserted that the country’s armed forces would decisively defend its sovereignty, as stated in the Tehran Times.
Current Status
As of now, the US and Israeli airstrikes that began on the Iranian capital Tehran, are still ongoing with sounds of explosion and air defense being heard in parts of the city, according to IRNA English. It is essential to mention that the situation is rapidly evolving, and further updates are expected.
The recent developments mark a significant escalation of tension in the region, with potential to plunge the Middle East into another uncertain period of violence. The public is urged to stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.