NEW YORK, Oct 06 (Alliance News): The Israeli military announced on Saturday that it is planning a “serious and significant” response to Iran’s recent ballistic missile attack on Tuesday night, while United Nations officials work tirelessly behind the scenes to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader war in the Middle East.
Diplomats expressed skepticism about the success of the UN’s efforts, noting that US-backed Israel has consistently defied the decisions and resolutions of the international body, even going as far as banning UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres from entering the country.
The Israeli military stated that Iran’s missile attack, which involved some 200 ballistic missiles, “would have consequences.” While no aircraft or critical infrastructure were reportedly hit, Israel’s Air Force remains fully operational.
Israel’s Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi vowed retaliation, stating, “Israel can reach and strike any point in the Middle East.”
However, any military response will require approval from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
In a security cabinet meeting following the missile attack, Netanyahu warned that Tehran had made a “big mistake” and promised that it “would pay for it.”
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has cautioned Israel against targeting Iran’s oil and nuclear facilities as part of their response. On Friday, Biden suggested that Israel consider alternatives to attacking Iran’s oil infrastructure, adding, “If I were in their shoes, I’d be thinking about other options.”
Despite heightened tensions, Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad downplayed the possibility of conflict disrupting the region, while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated the need for ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, calling for de-escalation efforts.
