Rising tensions: Iran's attacks and global reactions
Israeli army soldiers sit by a deployed infantry-fighting vehicle (IFV) at a position along the border with Lebanon in northern Israel on 1 October 2024. The Israeli army on 1 October said it launched a ground offensive in Lebanon and that its forces engaged in clashes, further escalating the conflict after a week of intense air strikes that killed hundreds. The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon said, however, the Israeli operation did not amount to a "ground incursion" and while Hezbollah denied any troops had crossed the border, an Israeli security official said localised raids had taken place and they were limited in scope.
Ahmad GHARABLI / AFP
The conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate, with both military and diplomatic developments creating widespread concern. Iran's missile strike on Israel on 1 October 2024, has drawn significant international attention.
On Wednesday, Israel’s army chief, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, updated the missile count, confirming that about 200 missiles were fired by Iran at Israel the previous day. This follows earlier reports from Iranian state TV. In response, the G7 and the United States have "unequivocally" condemned the attack, with the White House indicating the possibility of new sanctions.
Meanwhile, in a related incident, Hamas claimed responsibility for a deadly shooting and stabbing attack in Tel Aviv, which killed seven people. This event marks the latest in a series of violent confrontations in the region.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi reiterated that Tehran is not seeking war with Israel, yet the tensions continue to rise, with the potential for further military action looming. U.S. President Joe Biden also weighed in, stating that he would not support Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in retaliation, urging proportional responses instead.
The United Nations has called for an end to the "sickening cycle of escalation," as violence continues to ravage the Middle East. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need to stop the escalating conflict, warning that it is pushing the region closer to the edge.
These developments reflect a dangerous and ongoing conflict with global repercussions, as world powers respond and attempt to mediate the worsening situation.