Israel-Iran Conflict: The White House announced on Saturday that Israel’s recent airstrikes targeting Iranian military facilities are expected to de-escalate direct military exchanges between the two nations. A senior US official described the Israeli operation as “large-scale, precise, and targeted,” while issuing a stern warning to Iran against retaliation, according to the Associated Press (AP). While the US administration, including President Joe Biden, was briefed throughout the mission, the White House clarified that no American forces were involved in the strikes.
Targeted Strikes in Iran: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed conducting a series of airstrikes, labeled “Days of Repentance,” aimed at dismantling Iranian military capabilities in response to ongoing provocations. These included a major missile barrage on October 1. The operation, executed in multiple waves over several hours, specifically targeted air defense systems and ballistic missile production facilities linked to recent Iranian assaults on Israeli territory. In response, Iran claimed its air defenses successfully intercepted many of the strikes, reporting only “limited damage” to certain locations. Iranian military officials confirmed that the attacks primarily hit sites in the provinces of Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam.
According to US and Israeli officials, the strikes involved three waves of explosions near Tehran and other military bases, designed to test Iran’s air defense systems. The bombardments, which spanned over two hours, were described as one of the most significant operations in recent years. The IDF released a photograph of Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi overseeing the mission from the Israeli Air Force (IAF) command center, accompanied by IAF Chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media downplayed the attacks, denying reports of fires or explosions at a key oil refinery south of Tehran, as stated by Agence France-Presse (AFP). Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization also announced the suspension of all domestic and international flights until further notice, citing security concerns, according to state news agency IRNA.
This latest escalation underscores the ongoing tension between Israel and Iran, with both sides issuing stark warnings. Israel’s operation signals its determination to neutralize perceived threats, while Iran’s response reflects its intent to project resilience despite mounting external pressures.
