In a significant escalation of tensions, Iran has launched dozens of drones towards Israel, reportedly in retaliation for a missile strike that resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian military officers. The strike targeted Iran’s consulate in Damascus, leading to a sharp response from Tehran.
Details of the Attack
According to a report by Axios journalist Barak Ravid, which cites four unnamed US and Israeli officials, the drone operation occurred on Saturday. Social media was abuzz with videos showing Shahed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) being launched from Iranian territory towards Israel.
Iran has reportedly launched an attack against Israel using dozens of drones in apparent retaliation for a recent missile strike that killed seven military officers at its consulate in Damascus.
Middle East | 🇮🇱 🇮🇷 | These are the drones Iran is launching towards Israel. pic.twitter.com/bijeUVAkmH
— Sphithiphithi Evaluator (@_AfricanSoil) April 13, 2024
U.S. Response to Rising Tensions
The unfolding situation has drawn a direct response from the U.S. administration. President Joe Biden abruptly ended his weekend retreat to Delaware, returning to the White House for urgent consultations with his national security team. The move was prompted by concerns over an “imminent” Iranian attack against Israel.
Iran’s Vow for Retaliation and Seizure of an Israeli Ship
In a vow for retaliation made earlier, Tehran had promised to respond to the killing of its officers on April 1. In a significant development on Saturday, Tehran seized control of an Israeli-operated container ship in the Persian Gulf.
Israeli Defense Forces on High Alert
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are on a heightened state of alert in response to the increasing hostilities. IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari issued a stern warning regarding the potential consequences of further escalation from Iran:
Iran would “bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further. Israel is on high alert,”
stated Hagari in a video statement.
Drones leaving Iran pic.twitter.com/tfrHkZqqnQ
— Russian Market (@runews) April 13, 2024
Regional Impact
The drone strikes and ship seizure are part of a broader increase in hostilities involving Iranian-backed militias in the Middle East. These groups have intensified their attacks on both Israeli and U.S. interests, aligning with ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hamas in the region.
As this volatile situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with hopes for a de-escalation of tensions and a move towards stabilization in the region.
