Tag: iran attack on israel

  • ‘Israel Will Decide How To Respond To Iran’: PM Benjamin Netanyahu Tells West Amid Calls For Restraint | world news

    Tel Aviv: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has affirmed his nation’s commitment to defending itself autonomously, regardless of advice from allies, amid escalating tensions with Iran. Netanyahu’s assertion came during a cabinet meeting following discussions with UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, who had arrived in Israel in the wake of Tehran’s recent attack. Germany and the UK, while urging restraint from Israel, warned of the potential for broader conflict in the Middle East. However, Israel remains steadfast in its determination to retaliate against Iran, emphasizing the need for consequences following the attack.

    Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s prerogative to make independent decisions for its defense, regardless of external counsel. While appreciating the suggestions from allies, he reiterated Israel’s commitment to taking necessary measures to ensure its security. In his remarks at the cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said that the two leaders had “all kinds of suggestions and advice.” He noted that while it was appreciated, Israel would nevertheless “make our own decisions, and Israel will do everything necessary to defend itself.”

    Cameron acknowledged the likelihood of retaliation against Israel but expressed hope for a measured response to prevent further escalation. Baerbock voiced opposition to Israel’s retaliatory plans, advocating for prudence and emphasizing the need to prevent further fueling of the conflict.

    Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu’s office underlined Israel’s right to self-defense during discussions with foreign counterparts. Talks between Cameron, Baerbock, and Israeli leaders centered on the potential for Israeli retaliation.

    Baerbock and Cameron are slated to participate in a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Italy, where discussions will include considerations for imposing sanctions on Iran. Baerbock reiterated calls for Israel to exercise restraint, stressing the importance of responsible action.

    Cameron urged a refocus on addressing the situation in Gaza, where Israel’s counter-offensive against Hamas continues. The escalation between Israel and Iran follows Tehran’s retaliatory strikes for an alleged Israeli airstrike in Syria.

    Israel’s Defense Forces reported a high interception rate of projectiles launched by Iran, underscoring Israel’s military capabilities. The attack, comprising drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, was largely intercepted, with support from allies including the US, Jordan, and the UK.

  • Netanyahu Says Iran Attack Likely In ‘Other Areas Not Gaza’, How Is Israel Preparing For Different Scenarios? , world news

    In the midst of the ongoing war in Gaza, Israel is preparing for potential threats in other areas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his visit to the Tel Nof air force base in southern Israel, made it clear that Israel is ready to meet all its security needs, both defensively and offensively. “Whoever harms us, we will harm them,” he declared. The tension escalated when a senior Iranian general and six other officers were killed in an airstrike on the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. Although Israel has not claimed responsibility, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed that Israel “must be punished “For the attack.

    Israel’s chief military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, assured that while civilians are not being told to make any special preparations, Israel is “highly prepared for a range of scenarios.”

    How Is Israel Preparing For Likely Iran Attack?

    As Netanyahu made these comments, Israeli troops and warplanes initiated an operation in central Gaza aimed at destroying the infrastructure of armed Palestinian groups. Most Israeli troops have been pulled out of Gaza, preparing for an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where over a million Palestinians are sheltering. However, fighting continues in various areas of the enclave.

    Residents and militants reported intense gun battles with Israeli forces, particularly in the northern and southern areas of the Al-Nuseirat refugee camp. Israeli strikes from air, ground, and sea have been relentless, causing significant damage, including the destruction of two mosques.

    The conflict in Gaza, now in its seventh month, has overshadowed the increasingly tense situation further north. Israeli troops have engaged in daily exchanges of fire with Hezbollah terrorists across the border in Lebanon. On Thursday, Israeli jets hit Hezbollah targets in several areas, including Meiss el Jabal, Yarine, and Khiam.

    The Iranian-backed militia, known to possess a large arsenal of missiles, has long been considered one of the most likely forces that Tehran could use against Israel. However, so far, both sides have refrained from a full-scale confrontation.

    In the past 24 hours, Israeli military strikes have resulted in the death of 63 Palestinians and injured 45 others, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Late on Thursday, an Israeli airstrike reportedly killed Rudwan Rudwan, the head of the Hamas-run police force in Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip.

    Since the Israeli offensive began, at least 33,545 Palestinians have been killed, with most of the 2.3 million population displaced and much of the enclave laid to waste. The war began when Hamas led an attack on southern Israel, resulting in the death of 1,200 people and 253 taken hostage. Around 130 are still being held incommunicado in Gaza, according to Israel.