Israel-Iran Tensions Rise After Missile Attack

Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated following Iran's missile attack on Israel on October 1, which was in retaliation for the assassination of key figures in Tehran and Beirut by Israeli forces. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have indicated plans for a substantial military response, possibly excluding strikes on Iran’s nuclear and oil facilities, to prevent a larger regional conflict, as urged by U.S. President Biden. Leaked documents reveal Israel's military preparations, matching exercises conducted against Houthi rebels, signaling readiness for a significant counterattack on Iran. However, Iranian commanders, like Mohammad Ali Jafari, expect only a symbolic response from Israel, while warning of severe Iranian retaliation if Israel's actions are deemed significant. Iran's Foreign Minister and pro-government media portray Israel as aggressive and unrestrained, with calls for possible domestic strife within Iran should Israeli strikes occur. Meanwhile, tensions were further inflamed by Hezbollah's drone attack targeting Netanyahu, which he described as a 'grave mistake'.