Israel is preparing to launch a significant counter-attack against Iran, which is expected to occur “very soon,” according to state media reports. During a Cabinet meeting, Israeli ministers were informed about the impending military action, which follows Iran’s ballistic missile strikes on Israel earlier this month. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed to retaliate after around 180 ballistic missiles were launched by Iran on October 1 in response to the assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The timing of Israel’s response had remained unclear, but the report by Kan TV, a state-owned media outlet, confirmed that a major operation would be launched shortly. The planned counter-attack has heightened concerns about further escalation in the region, especially following the announcement by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the deployment of the THAAD anti-ballistic missile defense system in Israel. This system will be operated by approximately 100 US soldiers.
US President Joe Biden has urged Israel to act with restraint to prevent a wider Middle East conflict, expressing concerns about potential Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Iran has issued warnings that it will retaliate strongly if Israel proceeds with missile strikes against Iranian targets. As the situation escalates, global attention is focused on how the conflict will unfold and its potential impact on regional stability.
