Iran's Air Defense Response
Iran's air defense successfully repelled an attack from three small quadcopters targeting a munitions factory in Isfahan. Iran claimed that its air defenses brought down one of the drones while the two others exploded above the warehouse, causing minor damage to the roof.
International Reaction to the Strike
Iran's Foreign Minister called the strike cowardly but stated that it would not impact the country's determination for peaceful nuclear progress. The Israeli military declined to comment on the matter. The strike marks the first known attack carried out by Israel under the new far-right coalition government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
US-Israel Talks on Iran
Officials from both the US and Israel are discussing new methods to combat Iran's destabilizing operations, including its deepening military cooperation with Russia. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Israel to continue discussing Iran and regional issues.
Joint Military Exercise by US and Israel
The US and Israel recently conducted their largest-ever joint military exercise, involving over 7,500 personnel from both countries. The exercise tested the ability to take out air-defense systems and refuel jet planes, which could be critical elements in a military strike on Iran.
Iran Nuclear Deal and Biden's Efforts
President Biden's efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran have reached a standstill, and the US has yet to develop an alternative. Netanyahu has been urging the US to take a tougher stance against Iran. At the same time, the US is pressing Israel to assist Ukraine in its war with Russia, as Iran provides hundreds of drones to support Moscow's efforts.
Covert Strikes Against Iran
Mr. Netanyahu's new government is expected to continue carrying out covert strikes against Iran's nuclear and military program, as it helps damage Iran's ability to assist Russia in the war in Ukraine. Israel's support for Ukraine is not expected to be direct military aid to avoid any risk to its strategic interests in Syria or the diversion of sensitive military technology to Russia and Iran.
