Israel Attacks Iran in Retaliation for Weekend Attack on Its Consulate in Damascus: What It Means for the Region

On April 19, 2024, reports emerged that Israel had launched an attack on Iran. The attack came just days after Tehran fired 300 projectiles towards the country. According to Fars news agency from Tehran, three explosions were heard near an army base in Isfahan. Meanwhile, Iran’s state TV claimed that its defense system was able to destroy three drones in the sky.

In response to Iran’s attack over the weekend, which had been largely deterred by Tel Aviv and its allies, including the United States, Israel promised to retaliate against Iran. The attack was in response to an alleged Israeli airstrike on Iran’s consulate in Damascus. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi had issued a warning that his country would strongly retaliate to any attacks on its territory.

The Israeli flag was seen flying on the Mount of Olives overlooking the Al Aqsa mosque compound and the city skyline in Jerusalem on April 19, 2024. US media sources quoted officials stating that Israel had conducted retaliatory strikes on Iran. The incident sparked tension between the two countries and their respective allies, raising concerns about a potential escalation of conflict in the region.