The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran escalated dramatically over the weekend, as Israel successfully defended against an unprecedented attack launched by Iran. According to Israeli military sources, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles towards Israeli territory late on Saturday. However, Israeli defenses managed to intercept 99% of them, with the military describing the attack as “foiled.”
The attack marks a significant escalation in hostilities between the two regional rivals, following an airstrike in Syria that killed two Iranian generals, an action Iran blamed on Israel. Iran’s armed forces chief of staff claimed the attack achieved its objectives, while also warning Israel of further consequences if it retaliates. Additionally, Iran cautioned the United States against supporting any Israeli response.
The United Nations Security Council is set to convene following Israel’s request to condemn Iran’s actions and designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. US President Joe Biden has reaffirmed Washington’s unwavering support for Israel after urgent consultations with top security officials.
The conflict has drawn in allies of both sides, with Yemen’s Houthi rebels launching drones at Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah firing rockets at Israeli positions in the Golan Heights. Meanwhile, the Palestinian group Hamas, engaged in a separate conflict with Israel, has rejected a ceasefire proposal, insisting on the return of hostages taken during an earlier attack.
Casualty figures from Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry indicate a significant toll, with thousands killed and injured throughout the conflict. However, the ministry’s reporting methodology has drawn criticism for not distinguishing between civilians and combatants and attributing all casualties to “Israeli aggression.”
Recent developments include Iran’s seizure of a container ship allegedly linked to Israel near the Strait of Hormuz and Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on Israeli positions in response to Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.
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Amid heightened tensions, France has advised against travel to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories. The situation remains fluid as both sides brace for potential further escalation.
- Source: FRANCE 24
