Israel does not know how to respond to Iran’s missile and drone offensive

Israeli officials reported that following Iran’s direct military strike, which involved more than 300 drones and missiles on Saturday, Israel’s war cabinet met to discuss potential retaliatory actions.

Although there is consensus on the need for retaliation, the cabinet remains divided on the timing and scale of the response, according to a report by Valor.

President Joe Biden, reinforcing the United States’ “unwavering” support for Israel, emphasized through National Security Advisor John Kirby that the US does not seek war with Iran and aims to avoid further escalation.

Israel’s war cabinet, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, plans to form a regional coalition to “take the price from Iran at the appropriate time,” Minister Benny Gantz declared.

This comes amid ongoing investigations into Iran’s alleged involvement in a coup plot aimed at preventing the inauguration of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The G7 nations, in response to the attack, came together to coordinate a unified diplomatic response, condemning Iranian actions and signaling readiness to respond to further destabilizing acts.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for maximum restraint, reminding member states of the prohibition on the use of retaliatory force under international law, highlighting the acute risk of a major conflict in the Middle East.

Iran justified its missile attacks as retaliation for an alleged Israeli attack on its consulate in Damascus, which resulted in the deaths of Iranian generals.

President Ebrahim Raisi declared the operation a lesson for Israel, threatening more decisive action if further recklessness was demonstrated.

Israel’s defense systems have successfully intercepted the majority of threats, with a spokesperson confirming the interception of 99% of attacks.

This defense prevented significant damage during a period of heightened tension, with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Meanwhile, negotiations for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas have stalled, with recent proposals from Qatari, Egyptian and US mediators being rejected by Hamas.