Tensions Escalate as US and Europe Call for Calm Amid Growing Conflict

World leaders have expressed concern and urged restraint following Israel’s first open airstrikes on Iran, a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. The strikes targeted approximately 20 military bases across Iran, including key missile and drone manufacturing sites, as well as air defense systems.

This military operation by Israel came in response to Iran’s missile barrage on October 1, which launched around 180 ballistic missiles towards Tel Aviv and military bases, reportedly in support of Hezbollah amid Israel’s ground invasion of Lebanon. The strikes were not unexpected, as they had been pre-announced by Israel, and US officials indicated no immediate changes to civilian security measures, suggesting that a large-scale Iranian retaliation is not anticipated in the short term.

However, the international community has voiced deep concern about the rising tensions. The US, Israel’s main ally, described the airstrikes as a defensive measure, stressing the need for Iran to cease attacks on Israel to prevent further escalation. European and Middle Eastern leaders have also called for de-escalation to avoid a broader regional war.