Israel struck Iran early on Friday in response to an Iranian attack on Israel the previous weekend, marking the latest development in a cycle of retaliation between the two countries. The strike targeted a military air base near Isfahan, Iran, with reports of explosions heard in other areas as well. The Israeli military did not comment on the strike, while Iranian state media sought to downplay the severity of the attack.
The Iranian attack on Israel last weekend consisted of over 300 missiles and drones, but caused little damage and few injuries as most of the weapons were intercepted. The attack was in response to an Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria on April 1, which left seven Iranian officials dead. Israeli officials did not inform the United States of the Damascus strike, leading to concerns over escalation.
Initially, it was unclear whether Iran would retaliate against Israel in response to the strike. Reaction in both countries suggested that the response might be muted, with Iranian state media reporting that military and nuclear facilities in Isfahan were undamaged. Israeli officials stated that the strike was intended to avoid escalating tensions, while some celebrated the attack.
Isfahan, the target of the Israeli strike, is known for its historic sites and is a center of Iranian weapons production. The province of Isfahan also contains the Natanz uranium enrichment site, as well as an air base with American-made F-14 Tomcats. Iran’s Shahab medium-range missiles, capable of reaching Israel, are assembled in the area as well.
World leaders have expressed concerns over a potential war between Iran and Israel, urging Israel to consider the interception of the Iranian missiles and drones as a strategic victory. A broader conflict could draw in other countries, especially considering Israel’s ongoing conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel’s conduct in the Gaza conflict, where thousands have died, has raised diplomatic concerns and increased its isolation internationally.
