TEL AVIV, Israel. Israel has lauded its air defenses for repelling an unprecedented assault by Iran, boasting that the systems successfully thwarted 99% of the over 300 drones and missiles launched towards its territory. The region remains tense amid concerns of potential Israeli retaliation, escalating fears of further conflict.
U.S. President Joe Biden announced plans to convene a meeting of the Group of Seven advanced democracies on Sunday to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s audacious attack. The United States emphasized its stance against participating in any offensive actions against Iran, prioritizing diplomatic solutions.
The attack by Iran was purportedly in retaliation for a strike on an Iranian consular building in Syria earlier in the month, which resulted in the deaths of two Iranian generals. Israel reported that Iran launched a barrage of 170 drones, over 30 cruise missiles, and more than 120 ballistic missiles.
As tensions simmered, a key member of Israel’s War Cabinet, Benny Gantz, asserted Israel’s determination to form a regional coalition to hold Iran accountable. This latest assault marks the first time Iran has directly targeted Israel militarily, intensifying a longstanding enmity dating back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Israel’s robust air defense network, developed with the assistance of the United States, played a crucial role in intercepting the barrage of threats, including long-range missiles, cruise missiles, drones, and short-range rockets. The collaboration with allies helped avert what could have been a devastating attack, especially as Israel grapples with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and along its northern border with Hezbollah.
Both Israeli and U.S. officials commended the effectiveness of the response to the aerial assault. Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari hailed the interception of over 99% of the threats as a resounding success. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed gratitude for international assistance in thwarting the attack.
While Iran declared the end of its operation, tensions lingered as Iranian officials issued warnings against any further escalation. Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi cautioned against additional actions that could provoke a heavier response from Iran.
The successful defense by Israel contrasts starkly with its struggles during previous conflicts, notably during the recent conflict with Hamas. The outcome of Israel’s response will be closely monitored both regionally and internationally.
In Washington, President Biden praised Israel’s resilience and pledged to engage allies to formulate a unified response. Leaders from the G7 are set to hold a video conference to address the escalating tensions.
The aftermath of the attack has seen increased hostilities across the region, with Hezbollah engaging in attacks along Israel’s northern border, and Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen launching rockets towards Israel. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts underway to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
