Israeli authorities have authorized a three-person war cabinet to determine the nation's response to the recent Iranian attack. The decision follows a meeting late Saturday, during which Israel reported facing over 200 threats. This war cabinet comprises Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, and Benny Gantz.
In response to the Iranian attack, Israel's Home Front Command has rescinded its call for residents to remain near shelters. This move came after the Israel Defense Forces advised residents in certain areas of northern Israel to stay close to protected spaces and wait in the safest area for at least 10 minutes upon hearing sirens. Despite this, the Israeli army reported intercepting 99 percent of the launched weapons.
The Iranian attack, which included drones and missiles, was reportedly a response to a strike in Damascus that killed seven Iranian guards, including two generals. Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed launching the attack, with ballistic missiles being fired after slower-moving drones. Meanwhile, allies of Iran, including Yemen's Huthi rebels and Lebanon's Hezbollah, joined the attack.
Following the attack, US President Joe Biden reaffirmed Washington's support for Israel after urgent meetings with security officials. While tensions escalate, global leaders are urging restraint. The UN Security Council is set to discuss the crisis, and Biden will convene with G7 leaders for a united diplomatic response. Israel, on the other hand, has closed its airspace temporarily, and fighting continues in Gaza.
