“Israel Vows Response to Iran’s Weekend Missile Attack, Says Military Chief”

Israel’s military leadership indicated on April 15 that the nation would respond to Iran’s recent attack, though specifics regarding the timing and method remained undisclosed. This announcement came amidst global appeals for restraint, aiming to prevent an escalation of violence in the Middle East.

Iran’s assault on April 13 was purportedly in retaliation for a suspected Israeli strike two weeks earlier on an Iranian consular building in Damascus, Syria, resulting in the deaths of two Iranian generals. Notably, this marked the first direct military confrontation initiated by Iran against Israel, following decades of animosity since Iran’s Islamic Revolution in 1979.

The attack saw Iran deploying a barrage of drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles towards Israel. Israeli defence forces reported a remarkable interception rate of 99%, attributed to their own air defences and coordinated efforts with a U.S.-led coalition.

Israeli military chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi emphasized on April 15 that Israel was contemplating its next course of action, affirming that the Iranian strike would not go unanswered. However, details regarding the response were withheld. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the army’s spokesperson, reiterated Israel’s stance, asserting that the response would occur at a time of their choosing.

Both officials addressed the issue from the Nevatim air base in southern Israel, which reportedly sustained minimal damage during the Iranian attack.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in discussions with top officials to deliberate potential responses. However, for the second consecutive day, the government refrained from making any official announcements.

In a conversation with U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Netanyahu’s office conveyed Israel’s unwavering commitment to defend itself by any means necessary.

Despite indications of Israeli retaliation, the government faced significant international pressure to avoid exacerbating the conflict, especially given the limited impact of the Iranian attack.

The United States urged Israel to exercise restraint while advocating for a comprehensive diplomatic approach.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, reiterated that the decision to respond rested with Israel. He emphasized the U.S.’s stance against escalation while affirming its commitment to safeguarding regional stability and protecting its forces.

In recent years, the U.S. has endeavoured to bolster ties between Israel and moderate Arab states, primarily through collaboration under the U.S. Central Command. This cooperation extends to countries like Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and others in the region.

The involvement of U.S., British, and Jordanian air forces in intercepting Iranian missiles and drones was confirmed. Halevi also acknowledged the participation of France and other partners, highlighting the potential for enhanced cooperation in the Middle East.

The trajectory of Iranian weapons through Saudi airspace indicated tacit cooperation with Saudi Arabia. However, a unilateral Israeli response could strain these covert ties, particularly with nations like Saudi Arabia that lack official diplomatic relations with Israel.

Furthermore, such a response could escalate tensions with Iran at a time when Israel is embroiled in a protracted conflict in Gaza against Hamas militants.

The Gaza conflict, triggered by cross-border attacks attributed to Hamas and Islamic Jihad, underscores the broader regional tensions involving Iran-backed groups.

World leaders reiterated calls for restraint, with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasizing the imperative for all sides to avoid further violence. French President Emmanuel Macron pledged efforts to dissuade Israel from escalating the situation.

In Washington, U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby refrained from commenting on Israeli response plans, emphasizing the U.S.’s non-involvement in Israeli decision-making processes. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security while advocating for diplomatic efforts to address the Iran-related challenges.