Israel Vows Retaliation Amid Iranian Assault: Tensions Escalate
Benny Gantz, a member of the Israeli war cabinet, has stated that Israel will retaliate against an Iranian attack at the "appropriate time." This raises questions about the potential onset of a full-scale conflict.
1:11 PM EDT, April 15, 2024
From late Saturday into Sunday, Iran launched an assault on Israel, deploying hundreds of drones and cruise missiles. Thanks to their air defense system and allied support, the Israel Defense Forces have successfully intercepted 99% of the roughly 300 missiles. Unfortunately, the attack resulted in the tragic death of a seven-year-old girl when her home was struck by missile debris.
"The matter can be deemed concluded. However, should the Israeli regime make another mistake, Iran’s response will be considerably more severe. It is a conflict between Iran and the rogue Israeli regime, from which the U.S. MUST STAY AWAY!," announced the permanent representation of Iran to the UN.
A statement from a war cabinet minister
Benny Gantz, a minister within the Israeli war cabinet, addressed the nighttime assault by Iran. He characterized Iran as a global concern, a regional challenge, and a direct threat to Israel, applauding the international unity with Israel against this menace on this occasion.
Gantz also revealed that Israel is in the process of establishing a "regional coalition" to impose a fitting response on Iran, timed and executed according to Israel's preferences. Moreover, he underscored that threats would only strengthen Israel's resolve.
Unfulfilled objectives
Gantz reminisced that the objectives of the conflict in the Gaza Strip against Hamas remain unmet. These goals include the return of kidnapped hostages and the assurance of safety for the residents of the southern and northern regions, who face missile attacks from the Gaza Strip and the Iranian-supported Hezbollah in Lebanon.
On Sunday, Gantz also mentioned a conversation with the UK's Foreign Minister, David Cameron, regarding the evolving situation in the region.
"I conveyed to him my appreciation for the UK’s clear stance against the aggression of Iran and its proxies, and emphasised the imperative of the international community standing together against the Iranian axis of terror regionally and globally." Gantz communicated via the X platform.