U.S and Israel Attack Iran

The U.S. And Israel Launched A Warfare Attack On Iran

The Middle East has entered a period of uncertainty as the U.S. and Israel launched a warfare attack against Iran early Saturday. This is one of the most significant direct confrontations between two different regions in decades.

The Beginning Of A Major Combat Operation

President Donald Trump announced the action as the beginning of a major combat operation aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities and pushing for a rigorous change. Targets across Tehran and other Iranian cities were hit including military sites and strategic infrastructure. Explosions were reported in Tehran’s central districts and other urban areas.

Operation Lion’s Roar

Israeli officials said the strikes were referred to as part of Operation Lion’s Roar. The attack was planned in coordination with Washington and intended to eliminate what they described as an existential threat. The attack also posed to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile program.

Tehran responded swiftly and fiercely by firing ballistic missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. military bases stationed across the Gulf. Other affected places included Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates which included U.S bases. Several affected areas like the Gulf states reported explosions or intercepted incoming missiles leading to airspace closures and heightened military alerts.

Retaliation As A Justified Self Defense

Iran’s leadership portrayed the retaliation as a justified self-defense against what it called “violations of international law”, and warning that all American and Israeli assets in the Middle East are legitimate targets.

The conflict has unfolded at a time when political efforts are taking place and nuclear warfare has alarmed the government. Global capitals are calling for restraint and issuing a warning that the confrontations are at risk for a larger regional war. There will also be much larger humanitarian and economic consequences.

Grave Concern From Humanitarian Organizations

Humanitarian organizations have expressed grave concern over civilian safety in some densely populated urban centers. They are calling for immediate corridors of neutrality. Many analysts fear that direct U.S military intervention may instead call for domestic support for the Iranian leadership. As the UN Security Council prepare to meet and the world continues to wait and see if diplomacy can still find leverage.

Sources:

CNN: US and Israel attack Iran as Tehran retaliates across Middle East

PBS: Read Netanyahu’s full statement on Iran attacks

Featured Image Courtesy of Mehtab Hassan Flickr Page – Creative Commons License

Inset Image Courtesy of Farhod Family Flickr Page – Creative Commons License