Iran’s Threat After Launching Missile Attack on Israel: “Won’t Hesitate” in Iran-Israel War

The attack, which was carried out in retaliation for a strike in Syria that resulted in the deaths of top Iranian military officers, marked the first time that Iran had launched an attack on Israel from its own soil. In a statement, Iran justified the attack as an act of self-defense against what it termed Israeli military aggression. The statement also indicated that the action was a “legitimate” defensive response and a warning to Israel, which had not confirmed carrying out the strike in Damascus. Additionally, Iran cautioned the United States to refrain from involvement in the conflict.

The Iran’s mission to the United Nations stated, “On 14 April 2024, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s armed forces have carried out a series of military strikes on Israeli’s military bases in response to, and in exercise of its inherent right of self-defense as recognized under Article 51 of the Charter, against Israel’s recurring military aggressions, resulting in the martyrdom of the Iranian military advisors present in Syria.” Iran also reiterated its willingness to launch further attacks if Israel did not cease its actions, stating, “The Islamic Republic of Iran would not hesitate to take further necessary defensive measures to protect its legitimate interests against any act of military aggression or unlawful use of force.” Reports from Israel indicated that the attack led to sirens and distant sounds of heavy explosions, with a 7-year-old girl reported to be critically injured. Israel’s military spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, stated that Iran had launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted outside Israeli borders.

This included the firing of more than 10 cruise missiles. Overall, the situation reflects heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with the potential for further escalation if both parties do not pursue diplomatic means to address their grievances.