
As Israel Braces for Iran's Response, Pentagon Issues Warning: 10 Key Facts
Following Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian military sites, tensions between Israel and Iran are at a high, with both countries issuing stern warnings. The United States has termed Israel's strikes as an "exercise of self-defense" and has advised Tehran to refrain from any retaliatory measures. Here are the key facts surrounding this escalating situation:
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Israel’s Airstrikes: Over 100 Israeli fighter jets, including F-35 stealth fighters, flew over 1,000 kilometers and targeted Iran's radar and air defense systems, rendering them vulnerable. Key military sites, including a missile manufacturing unit, were also hit.
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Iran’s Initial Denial: Initially, Iran claimed the explosions were due to air defense activation but later admitted the strikes had caused "limited damage" and confirmed two Iranian soldiers were killed.
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Iran’s Response: Iran has issued a warning through the semi-official Tasnim news agency, stating that any further actions by Israel will be met with a proportional response.
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US Position: The US confirmed Israel’s prior notification about the attack and emphasized that Washington had no direct involvement. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged Iran not to retaliate, suggesting the strikes should mark the end of the exchange.
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Regional Reactions: States across West Asia, including Hamas, Iraq, Pakistan, Syria, and Saudi Arabia, have condemned the strikes, with Turkey calling for an end to "terror created by Israel."
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Global Calls for Restraint: Russia, embroiled in its conflict with Ukraine, urged both Israel and Iran to avoid a "catastrophic scenario." India expressed concern over the escalation, highlighting its potential impact on regional and global peace.
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Lebanon Incident: Reports of an Israeli air raid on southern Beirut emerged after Israel’s army called for evacuations in specific areas. Lebanon’s National News Agency confirmed the attack targeted the southern suburbs of Beirut.
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Strikes on Syria: Syrian authorities reported explosions in Damascus, linking them to Israeli attacks launched from the occupied Golan Heights and parts of Lebanon. Syria, part of Iran's ‘Axis of Resistance,’ activated air defenses in response.
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Airspace Lockdown: In response to the strikes, Iran, Iraq, and Syria implemented temporary airspace restrictions to protect civil aviation and streamline air defense operations.
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Escalating Conflict: Israeli envoy Reuven Azar clarified that the strikes were precise and focused on disabling Iran’s military infrastructure related to its missile and drone programs. This action underscores Israel's determination to counter attacks from Iran directly or indirectly.
As the situation continues to unfold, international communities remain vigilant, with diplomatic efforts likely focusing on containing further escalation.
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