UPDATE 13/04/2024 – 18:55 GMT: Iran says it has “concluded” attack on Israel

Iran announced the conclusion of its retaliation for the attack on its Damascus embassy with a drone and missile strike against Israel. They warned of a harsher response if Israel retaliates and emphasized this as a conflict solely between Iran and Israel.

“The matter can be deemed concluded,” it said. “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!”

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

Jerusalem – April 13, 2024 | 15:30 – Tensions in the Middle East erupted into open warfare early Sunday morning as Iran launched a barrage of drones against Israel. The audacious attack, the first of its scale directly targeting Israeli territory, is a chilling response to a deadly Israeli airstrike on an Iranian embassy complex in Syria two weeks ago.

Dozens, or possibly even hundreds, of Iranian drones streaked across the night sky, triggering air raid sirens and explosions throughout Israel. Israeli fighter jets scrambled to intercept the incoming projectiles, with reports suggesting some missiles may have also been launched by Iran. The skies above major Israeli cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv became a battleground, illuminated by flashes of light and the thunderous roar of explosions.

US Bolsters Defenses as Regional Tensions Soar

The United States, which has long warned of a potential Iranian retaliation, has reportedly deployed additional military assets to the region to bolster its own defenses and those of Israel. Central Command chief General Michael Kurilla met with Israeli military officials earlier this week, a clear sign of Washington’s growing concern.

“This is a real and serious escalation,” stated a US State Department official on condition of anonymity. “We are urging all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.”

Echoes of Past Conflicts Haunt Region

The current crisis evokes memories of past wars between Israel and Iran-backed militant groups like Hezbollah. Fears of a wider regional conflagration are mounting, with countries like Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon all closing their airspace in a precautionary measure.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation in a televised statement, vowing a strong response. “The state of Israel is strong. The IDF (Israeli Defense Force) is strong. The public is strong,” he declared. “We will defend ourselves against any threat and will do so level-headedly and with determination.”

International Community Calls for De-escalation

World leaders have expressed deep concern about the escalating violence and are urging both sides to step back from the brink. The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting later today to discuss the crisis.

The coming hours and days will be critical in determining the trajectory of this unfolding conflict. Whether this marks the beginning of a full-blown war or a temporary eruption of violence remains to be seen.