TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an emergency meeting of the War Cabinet following a major missile and drone attack from Iran. The attack, a retaliation for an earlier Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate in Syria, significantly escalates tensions between the two nations.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other senior officials joined the meeting, discussing Israel's response. The Israel Prime Minister's Office issued a statement confirming the War Cabinet's discussions.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Foreign Ministry released a video showcasing the Israeli Air Force intercepting Iranian missiles and drones. The Ministry asserted that Israel "will continue to do whatever is necessary to protect [its] citizens from any threat."
The Iranian attack marks a dangerous escalation following the deaths of three Iranian generals in a suspected Israeli airstrike in Syria. Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that roughly 99% of the 300 Iranian projectiles were successfully intercepted, calling it "a very significant strategic achievement." Hagari also asserted that Iran targeted an Israeli airbase but failed to inflict serious damage.
War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz warned that Israel will "exact a price from Iran in a way and time that suits us," highlighting the minimal damage from Iran's attack. Gantz indicated that "this event is not over" and emphasized Israel's determination to build a regional coalition against Iran and ensure the safety of its citizens.
Defense Minister Gallant echoed these sentiments, stating the confrontation with Iran is "not over yet."
