Israel Plans Massive Retaliation, Targets May Include Oil & Gas Rigs, Nuclear Sites

Israeli Prime Minister's Response to Iranian Attack

Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, is reportedly in discussions with his security cabinet regarding potential responses to the Iranian attack that took place last night. This attack involved approximately 181 ballistic missiles being launched directly at Israel. According to Israel's military, most of these were intercepted and there was minimal damage or Israeli casualties. However, this is contradicted by a multitude of videos available from the ground. Israeli media has quoted officials suggesting that retaliation against Iran could involve targeting gas or oil rigs, and Iran's nuclear sites.

Potential Impact of the Attack on Iranian Oil Facilities

An attack on Iranian oil facilities could have a devastating impact on the country’s economy. This would mark another escalation in the ongoing war that started when the Hamas terror group attacked Israel in October 2023, as reported by the Times of Israel. Another official quoted by the publication suggested that the response will aim to inflict "significant financial damage" and that Israeli leaders believe the strike "must be significant, and it must come soon."

Security Cabinet's Response and Netanyahu's Vow

The security cabinet spent a significant amount of time on Tuesday night in a secure bunker under Jerusalem. By the end of the meeting, it was reportedly agreed that Israel's military would retaliate. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's initial response to the attack was "Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it". He vowed, "whoever attacks us — we will attack them." He further emphasized Israel's determination to defend itself and retaliate against its enemies.

Israel's Potential Retaliation

Reports suggest that Israel is planning a "massive payback". Israeli officials, facing the prospect of an all-out regional war, have indicated that Israel will launch a "significant retaliation" within days. This could target oil production facilities inside Iran and other strategic sites. An Israeli official expressed uncertainty about how the Iranians might respond to an attack, but acknowledged the possibility that they could go all in, which would significantly change the situation.

Reaction in Iran and Gaza

In Iran and Gaza, people were seen celebrating the ballistic missile attacks. The scale of the attack was unprecedented in history in terms of a single volley of heavy rockets sent directly on Israel.

Ground Troops Engaged in Close-Quarters Combat

In South Lebanon, Israeli ground troops are reportedly engaged in close-quarters combat with Hezbollah fighters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the first troop death of its Operation Northern Arrows in Lebanon. The soldier was identified as Cpt. Eitan Itzhak Oster, a team commander in the Egoz Commando Unit, from Modi’in. Oster was killed during a battle with Hezbollah operatives in a village in southern Lebanon.

Reports of Additional Casualties

There have been unverified reports of additional casualties suffered by the Israelis, and the situation is fast resembling the 2006 war, which saw high casualties on both sides. Hezbollah has issued a statement saying its fighters detonated an explosive device that killed and wounded members of the Israeli army trying to circumvent the village of Yaroun in southern Lebanon. The Israeli Army did not immediately confirm or deny this.

Preparations in Iran

In Iran, people are preparing for the worst, with long lines of cars seen at gas stations in Tehran. This suggests that they are aware that Iran's oil infrastructure could be severely damaged soon.

Bottom Line

The escalating tensions between Israel and Iran are a cause for concern, with potential for significant economic and human impact. The situation is fluid and the world is watching closely to see how events will unfold. What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you think a peaceful resolution is possible? Share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing which is available every day at 6pm.