**Iranian Strikes on Israel: What Happened and Why Did Iran Launch the Attack?**

 **Iranian Strikes on Israel: What Happened and Why Did Iran Launch the Attack?**

### Explainer: Iranian Strikes on Israel – What Happened and Why?

**Overview**

On Tuesday night, Iran launched its largest missile attack against Israel, targeting military bases. Israel’s air defense systems, bolstered by support from allies like the US and UK, largely intercepted these strikes.

**What Missiles Were Used?**

Iran utilized ballistic missiles that can travel outside the Earth's atmosphere, along with hypersonic missiles capable of reaching speeds up to 10,000 mph. This marks a continuation of Iran's missile activity against Israel, following similar strikes earlier this year.

**Why Did Iran Attack?**

While specific details of the attack weren't disclosed in advance, the strike was not unexpected. World powers had been warning of a possible escalation in the region due to Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in around 40,000 Palestinian deaths. This escalation followed a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which claimed about 1,200 Israeli lives.

In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expanded their operations into Lebanon, heavily targeting areas associated with Hezbollah, Iran's key regional ally. The situation intensified following recent violence, including an attack that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Israeli airstrikes that devastated southern Beirut and other regions in Lebanon. Currently, approximately one million people—about one-fifth of Lebanon’s population—are displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

**What Damage Was Caused?**

The damage from the missile strikes is still being assessed. Reports indicate no injuries in Israel, though one fatality occurred in the occupied West Bank. Damage includes several craters found in central and southern Israel, and at least one missile reportedly struck a school. US President Joe Biden characterized the Iranian attack as “ineffective,” highlighting the limited impact on Israeli targets.

**What’s Next?**

Iran has claimed that its missile strikes are concluded for now but remains prepared to retaliate if Israel responds. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran had made a “big mistake” and vowed that there would be consequences for the attack. The region remains on high alert as tensions continue to rise, and the potential for further military actions looms large. Both sides are bracing for what could be a protracted conflict, with diplomatic efforts struggling to keep pace with the escalating violence.