October 26, 2024: In a significant escalation of tensions, Israel launched a series of airstrikes against Iranian military targets early Saturday morning, an operation dubbed "Operation Days of Repentance." This action comes as a direct retaliation for what Israeli officials describe as "months of continuous attacks" originating from the Iranian regime.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) executed three waves of airstrikes over Tehran and surrounding areas, targeting military facilities rather than energy or nuclear sites, which had been the subject of earlier speculation. The attacks reportedly began shortly after 2 a.m., with residents in the capital reporting at least seven distinct explosions during the initial wave.
According to Israeli sources, over 100 fighter jets were involved in the operation, striking more than 20 locations, including military bases in Karaj and other areas in western Tehran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant were on-site at military headquarters in Tel Aviv during the strikes, which they claimed were precise and aimed at neutralizing military threats.
In response, Iran reported that its air defense systems successfully intercepted many of the incoming strikes, causing "limited damage" to some locations. An Iranian official warned that the country is prepared to deliver a "proportional response" to Israel's actions, emphasizing that any further escalation from Israel would warrant a strong retaliation.
The situation has prompted immediate repercussions in air travel, with Iran canceling flights on all routes and Israel closing its airspace to civilian aviation. Iraq's transport ministry also announced the suspension of flights across its airports in light of the heightened regional tensions.
The United States was informed by Israel prior to the strikes, but officials clarified that the U.S. was not involved in the military operation. A senior White House official characterized Israel’s actions as an "exercise of self-defense," with President Biden receiving updates and closely monitoring the evolving situation.