Israeli Air Force Reports Destruction of Iranian Missile Launchers
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) announced that its Air Force successfully struck and destroyed missile launchers in western Iran. These launchers were reportedly armed and ready to fire towards Israeli territory as part of the ongoing 12-day conflict. This military action was aimed at neutralizing immediate threats amidst heightened missile exchanges between the two nations prior to a ceasefire agreement.
Unpacked:
The escalation began after Iran launched 400 missiles and 1,000 drones at Israel, prompting Israel to conduct preemptive strikes on Iranian missile launchers and military sites. Tensions were further heightened by intelligence reports suggesting Iran had amassed enough enriched uranium for potential nuclear weapons.
The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and disruption. Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Bat Yam experienced deadly missile strikes, causing numerous deaths and injuries. In Iran, Israeli strikes hit military and residential areas, with explosions causing building collapses and civilian injuries, including among military officers’ families.
Yes, Iran’s allies have become involved. The Houthis, an Iran-backed group in Yemen, targeted Israeli cities with ballistic missiles. Hezbollah, another Iranian ally, indicated they would not attack Israel during this phase of the conflict, keeping their involvement limited for now.
The conflict derailed ongoing nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US. Iran announced it would not participate in negotiations while under Israeli attack, causing the talks—originally scheduled for mid-June—to be cancelled or postponed.