Did Israel Just Start a War with Iran? What We Know

Israel has launched a missile strike inside Iranian territory last night, according to multiple reports from Iranian state media and international intelligence sources. The attack marks a dramatic turn in the ongoing shadow war between the two nations, raising fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East.

Details of the Strike

Iranian officials confirmed that explosions were heard near the central city of Isfahan, a key location housing military facilities and nuclear research sites. While the extent of the damage remains unclear, early reports suggest that the strike targeted an airbase and possibly a drone manufacturing plant.

Israeli officials have not publicly claimed responsibility, maintaining their usual policy of ambiguity regarding operations in Iran. However, U.S. and Western intelligence sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to major news outlets that Israel was behind the attack.

Iran’s Response

Iranian state media downplayed the incident, describing it as a failed "infiltration attempt" by small drones that were intercepted by air defenses. However, satellite imagery and regional analysts suggest that the attack may have involved precision-guided missiles rather than just drones.

So far, Iran has not announced any immediate retaliation, but hardline factions within the country are calling for a strong response. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has been placed on high alert, according to local reports.

Rising Tensions

The strike comes just days after Iran launched an unprecedented direct missile and drone attack on Israel in retaliation for an April 1 airstrike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, which killed several IRGC commanders. Israel, along with the U.S. and allied forces, intercepted most of the incoming projectiles.

Last night’s attack appears to be Israel’s first direct military strike on Iranian soil since that exchange, signaling a shift from covert operations to more overt military action.

International Reactions

• United States: The Biden administration, which had urged Israel to exercise restraint, stated it was not involved in the operation but reaffirmed its "ironclad" support for Israel.

• European Union: EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called for "maximum restraint" to avoid further escalation.

• Russia & China: Both nations condemned the strike, with Moscow calling it a "reckless provocation."

What's More?

Analysts warn that Iran may feel compelled to respond, potentially through proxy groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon or Houthi rebels in Yemen. A cycle of retaliation could plunge the region into a wider conflict, with global economic implications, particularly for oil markets.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days.

Source: CNN.com