The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Saturday that it has launched “precision strikes” against Iranian military installations. This decision follows a series of attacks from Iran and its regional proxies since October 7, including approximately 200 ballistic missiles reportedly fired at Israel.
In a statement, the IDF cited the necessity of these strikes, emphasizing Israel’s “right and duty to respond” to continued aggression from Iran. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF spokesperson, assured that Israel’s “defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilized” to counteract these threats and protect Israel’s security.
Hagari also urged Israeli citizens to remain vigilant, although he noted that there are currently no new instructions for the public. “We are conducting a continuous assessment of the situation,” he stated, advising citizens to adhere to the guidelines of the Home Front Command.
Unconfirmed reports of explosions near Tehran surfaced on social media, though Iranian authorities have yet to respond. The IDF’s statement was accompanied by a video showing explosions, signaling Israel’s preparedness to tackle potential retaliations.
The escalation follows a series of attacks by Iranian-backed groups, including Hezbollah and Houthis, which joined the conflict after Hamas’s October 7 assault on Israel. With the recent assassinations of Hamas leaders, including Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh, Iran had vowed to retaliate. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since pledged strong countermeasures against Iran and its proxies, marking a sharp escalation in the region.
