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Israel began launching retaliatory attacks on Iran on Friday evening, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed, in direct response to Iran’s attack on Israel earlier this month.
The attack is an escalation of tensions in the Middle East, which have increased since Hamas attacked Israel last year. The attack comes after Iran launched 180 missiles at Israel on October 1, which were largely intercepted with help from the United States.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant previously vowed to provide a “precise and lethal” response to the attack. according to Fox News.
Israel launched two waves of rockets in a two-hour period. The attacks hit military targets in Iran, as well as the Iranian capital Tehran, which was hit in both rounds. It did not target nuclear sites, reported the Associated Press.
“In response to months of sustained attacks by the regime in Iran against the State of Israel, the Israeli army is currently conducting precise strikes against military targets in Iran,” the IDF said. posted to X. “The regime in Iran and its allies in the region have been ruthlessly attacking Israel since October 7 – on seven fronts – including direct attacks from Iranian territory.
“Like every other sovereign country in the world, the State of Israel has the right and obligation to respond,” the report continued. “Our defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilized. We will do whatever it takes to defend the State of Israel and the people of Israel.”
Iran is expected to respond militarily, but Israeli and US officials reportedly hope this will be a limited response. according to Axios.
The United States said it would not participate in the strike. “We refer you to the Israeli government for more information about their operation,” said White House National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett. CNN.
President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin all have been informed about the Israeli attacks. Austin also spoke with Gallant.
According to state media, Syrian air defenses also encountered “hostile targets” near Damascus on Friday evening. Iraq and Iran have closed their airspace due to security concerns.
Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. That’s possible follow her on X for more coverage.