Iran and Israel exchange attacks despite Trump's counsel
Translated from Swedish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Iran and Israel have exchanged attacks, marking the most significant escalation since a previous ceasefire.
- The Iranian Revolutionary Guard stated the strikes were retaliation for an earlier Israeli bombing in Beirut and threatened further action.
- Amidst the exchange, former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against a retaliatory strike, advocating for negotiations.
Iran and Israel engaged in a significant exchange of attacks, escalating tensions in the region. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced launching drones and missiles against Israel, framing it as a response to an earlier Israeli bombing in Beirut. The Guard further threatened "devastating and overwhelming" retaliation for any attacks on Iranian territory, signaling a potential for continued aggression.
Israel confirmed its own retaliatory strikes, targeting military sites in western and central Iran. State media reported impacts in cities including Tehran, Tabriz, and Isfahan, leading Iran to close airspace around Imam Khomeini International Airport. These actions represent the most substantial escalation since a prior ceasefire was established.
All attacks on Iranian territory will be met with a devastating and overwhelming response, far beyond all expectations.
Adding a diplomatic layer, former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a phone call to refrain from further strikes. Trump emphasized his belief that a deal with Iran was within reach and advised Netanyahu to return to negotiations. However, reports suggest Netanyahu proceeded with Israeli strikes despite Trump's counsel, indicating a divergence in strategic approaches.
You have fired your missiles, that's enough. Return to the table and make a deal.
Originally published by Dagens Nyheter in Swedish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.