This weekend’s air raids in the Middle East set several records. Iran conducted its first direct attack on Israel from Iranian territory, launching a large swarm of drones and missiles against Israeli military bases. Additionally, U.S. troops engaged in direct combat in defense of Israeli territory for the first time in history.
The U.S. military intercepted three Iranian ballistic missiles and 70 drones en route to Israeli military bases, as reported by officials to CNN. American ships and fighter jets participated in the operation. Videos shared online also show U.S. ground troops in Iraqi Kurdistan firing antiaircraft missiles. The British and French militaries supported the operation, and Jordan reportedly shot down Iranian drones in its airspace.
Although most of the Iranian air raids were stopped, Iranian state media claimed that Israel’s Nevatim Air Base was severely damaged and put out of service. However, Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari denied this, stating that Nevatim was only slightly damaged and is still operational. There were no reported casualties.
Iran’s retaliation was in response to an Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1, which resulted in the death of 16 people, including an Iranian general.
President Joe Biden, after expressing full support for Israel, may have changed course. Following the weekend’s air raids, he informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States would not back an Israeli counterstrike on Iran. Biden’s stance was to let Israel claim victory and not escalate the situation further. Reports indicate that some Israeli officials wanted to attack Iran immediately but were dissuaded by Biden.
Biden condemned the air attack on Israeli military facilities and vowed to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s actions. He confirmed that there were no attacks on U.S. forces or facilities that day.
The next steps for Israel and the U.S. remain uncertain.
The conflict between Iran and Israel has a long history of violent threats and proxy attacks. While Iran supports Hamas and other Palestinian rebels, Israel has targeted Iranian nuclear scientists and bombed Iranian troops in Iraq and Syria with tacit U.S. support.
The recent escalation in the conflict across the region, triggered by the events of October 2023, has further complicated the situation. Iranian-backed forces in Yemen and Lebanon, as well as militias in Iraq, have been involved in attacks on Israeli interests.
Biden’s response to the consulate attack and subsequent events has been closely watched. His commitment to Israel’s security was tested, and while he defended Israel, he showed reluctance to escalate the conflict further.
Congress has not been actively involved in authorizing military action against Iran or providing aid to Israel amidst the escalating tensions.
Lawmakers have called for action, with some urging aggressive retaliation against Iran while others advocate for calm and restraint. The differing opinions reflect the complexity of the situation and the need for careful consideration before any further action is taken.
