‘A declaration of war’: Israel’s strike on Iran – Today in Focus Extra

In a significant escalation of tensions, Israel has launched its largest airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, targeting various military and strategic sites. The strikes, termed Operation Friday, involved over 200 Israeli jets and focused on crucial targets including the uranium enrichment plant in Natanz, alongside key military leaders from Iran's Revolutionary Guard. This operation marks a serious step in Israel's long-standing campaign against Iran's nuclear ambitions, which Israeli leaders claim pose an existential threat to the nation. The Israeli government asserts that Iran has accelerated its nuclear weaponization efforts, and time is running out to prevent them from obtaining atomic weapons.

As the situation unfolds, questions arise regarding Iran's potential retaliation and the United States' involvement. Previously, Israel sought American backing for military actions against Iran, but this time, they proceeded unilaterally, even as U.S.-Iran negotiations were scheduled. The uncertainty surrounding Iran’s response could further complicate the already volatile situation and potentially draw the U.S. into a conflict it wishes to avoid. The mood in Jerusalem is one of cautious apprehension as citizens brace for possible Iranian counterstrikes, while analysts remain divided on the likelihood of a full-scale regional war depending on how Iran chooses to interpret and react to these airstrikes.