Israel has launched its retaliatory strikes against Iran

Israel launched an offensive against Iran in retaliation for a large-scale ballistic missile attack by Iran on October 1.

U.S. and Israeli officials anticipate a military response from Iran but hope it will be contained, allowing the two countries to avoid escalating into a prolonged conflict. However, the Biden administration is concerned that a substantial Iranian response could lead to full-scale war between Israel and Iran.

Iranian state TV reported explosions in several locations across the country, including Tehran, early Saturday morning local time. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strikes, stating they were targeting military facilities in response to "months of continuous attacks" from Iran and its regional proxies.

Hours before the Israeli strikes, U.S. Central Command announced that F-16s from the 480th Fighter Squadron, stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, had arrived in the region, further bolstering U.S. military support in anticipation of escalated hostilities.

In preparation for potential Iranian retaliation, the U.S. military recently increased its presence in the region to deter Iran and support Israel against possible further missile attacks. President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin authorized the deployment of a THAAD missile defense system to Israel, with U.S. personnel who may actively participate in any combat on Israeli soil.