Israel Promises Retaliation for Missle Attack by Iran

Israel has vowed to retaliate after Iran fired waves of ballistic missiles at it on Tuesday evening, putting the region on edge for fear of an all-out war between the longtime adversaries.

Israeli officials reported that most of the missiles were intercepted by air defenses, aided by Western allies. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking on Tuesday, stated that Iran had "made a big mistake tonight — and it will pay for it," raising concerns in neighboring countries and among international observers about Israel's potential response.

Despite the missile barrage, no injuries were reported in Israel, though a casualty was recorded in the occupied West Bank. Iran’s foreign ministry maintained that the attack was defensive, targeting only Israeli military and security installations.

Israel's U.N. ambassador said the country would determine the timing and nature of its response to the nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran, stressing that the retaliation "will be noticed" and "painful." He cautioned Iran against testing Israel’s capabilities, while emphasizing that Israel does not seek conflict but cannot overlook attacks on its civilians.

Iran’s armed forces warned that any direct intervention by Israel's allies would prompt a "strong attack" on their regional "bases and interests."

Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s military chief, cautioned that Iran would target all of Israel's infrastructure if Israel retaliates, stating the Revolutionary Guard is prepared to launch further missile attacks with "multiplied intensity." He added that although Iran had refrained from targeting civilians, doing so remains a possibility.

The missile strike comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Prior to the attack, the U.S. had increased its military presence in the region in response to the growing hostilities.

The U.S. had also warned that an attack in the region was imminent. The attack has had a significant impact on global markets, with investors reacting to the potential implications of the escalating conflict.

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