The Israeli military said its “precise and targeted strikes”; Israeli airstrikes kill four Iranian soldiers; Hezbollah launches drone attack on Israeli airbase.

Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran early Saturday (October 26, 2024), targeting military sites in response to a recent attack. On October 1, 2024, Iran fired around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, marking its second direct assault on Israel within six months.

According to Israel’s military, the strikes focused on facilities used by Iran to manufacture the missiles fired at Israel, as well as surface-to-air missile sites. There was no indication of damage to oil or nuclear facilities, which would have marked a much more severe escalation. Israel has not yet provided a full damage assessment.

Following the strikes, Iran’s Foreign Ministry asserted its right to self-defense, stating it “considers itself entitled and obligated to defend against foreign acts of aggression.” The U.S. warned against further retaliation, while the U.K. urged Iran not to respond.

Saudi Arabia, along with several other regional countries, condemned Israel’s actions, calling them a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and international laws.