Israel on High Alert After Deadly Airstrike on Iranian Consulate
In a bold statement, Israel’s military declared its readiness to defend itself and take action against Iran following a deadly airstrike on the Iranian Consulate in Syria.
Reports from Syrian and Iranian officials confirm that twelve individuals, including two Iranian generals and five officers, lost their lives in the April one attack. Iran has pointed fingers at Israel for the incident, a claim supported by the US military’s belief that Israel was behind the strike. However, Israel has remained tight-lipped on the matter.
Anticipating potential retaliation from Iran or its proxy militant groups in the region, Israel has mobilized additional air defense units and activated troops. Chief spokesman Daniel Hagari warned that any attack from Iranian territory would be seen as a direct escalation by Iran in the Middle East.
Israel has bolstered its offensive and defensive capabilities in recent months and is prepared to respond as necessary, according to military officials. Head of the US military’s Central Command, Erik Kurilla, is in Israel for a strategic assessment with Israeli leaders, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Amidst the rising tensions, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed America’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security. However, concerns mount over the potential spillover of conflict from Israel’s ongoing battle against Hamas in Gaza.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached dire levels, with over one million people facing starvation. Reports from the US Agency for International Development suggest that famine is now a reality in northern Gaza, prompting calls for increased humanitarian aid flow into the region.
Tragically, the Health Ministry in Gaza reports that Israeli bombardments and ground offensives have resulted in the deaths of at least 33,360 Palestinians and left 74,993 wounded. The toll includes a significant number of women and children, underlining the devastating impact of the conflict.
The conflict, which began on October 7 with a surprise attack by Hamas that claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, has escalated into a full-blown crisis with no clear end in sight. The international community watches with bated breath as tensions continue to rise in the region. — Euronews
