Israel's response to Iran's missile barrage is likely to be severe, given the country's history of retaliating against attacks. Israeli officials have already vowed to make Iran "pay a price" for the strike, which launched at least 180 missiles into Israel, causing scattered damage and fires but no injuries ¹.
*Possible Response Scenarios:*
- *Air Strikes*: Israel may conduct airstrikes against Iranian military targets, potentially targeting missile launch sites, military bases, and other strategic locations.
- *Ground Operation*: Israel has already begun a ground operation in Lebanon, with troops targeting Hezbollah militants and infrastructure ¹. This operation could expand to include Iranian targets.
- *Diplomatic Efforts*: Israel may work with international partners, including the US, to impose economic sanctions on Iran and isolate the country diplomatically.
*Key Considerations:*
- *Escalation Risk*: Any Israeli response risks escalating the conflict, potentially drawing in other regional players and sparking a broader war.
- *Hezbollah Involvement*: Israel's operation in Lebanon is already focused on targeting Hezbollah militants, who are backed by Iran. This could lead to further clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
- *US Involvement*: The US has provided military support to Israel in the past and may continue to do so, potentially drawing Iran into a conflict with the US ².
Overall, Israel's response to Iran's missile barrage will likely be carefully calibrated to balance the need for retaliation with the risk of escalation.