Netanyahu Vows Severe Retaliation as many call for hitting Iranian nuclear sites and energy infrastructure. Will Israeli coordinate with US or go it alone?

On October 1, 2024, Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles at multiple locations in Israel, targeting major cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and southern areas such as Gedera. The massive barrage, which saw most missiles intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, marked one of the most direct Iranian attacks in years.

Despite the vast scale of the strike, there were no known Israeli casualties. One Arab resident in Jericho killed by falling missile debris. Five Iranian personnel lost their lives when one of their own missiles exploded prematurely.

In response to the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear that Iran would face a “painful” retaliation. “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it,” Netanyahu declared, following an emergency meeting of his security cabinet. “Whoever attacks us, we attack them.”

Israeli Response Options

Military experts and officials are suggesting that Israel’s response could include strikes on Iran’s critical infrastructure, including its nuclear sites and energy production facilities. For years, Israel has maintained that it would not tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran and has previously carried out covert operations targeting Iran’s nuclear program. Some analysts believe this missile barrage could provoke a direct Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, or other sensitive locations.

While Netanyahu has not specifically outlined which targets Israel will hit, the Prime Minister emphasized that the “response will be felt deeply in Iran,” leaving open the possibility that Israel might escalate by targeting Iran’s nuclear or energy infrastructure. Given that Iran’s oil and gas production facilities are vital to its economy and military, such strikes could deliver a devastating blow to Tehran.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the IDF spokesperson, reaffirmed that Israeli forces are fully prepared to carry out significant retaliatory strikes: “Our air force is ready, our defenses are intact, and we will ensure Iran pays a heavy price for its aggression.”

Growing Tensions in the Region

The missile barrage comes after months of escalating tensions between Israel and Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. In recent weeks, Israel has intensified its military operations against Hezbollah targets, including assassinations of high-ranking figures such as Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Iran’s attack was seen as retaliation for these actions, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirming that the missile strikes were “in response to the martyrdom of resistance leaders.”

Iranian military officials have warned that any further Israeli action could trigger a more extensive Iranian missile assault. General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s armed forces joint chief of staff, stated, “If the Zionist regime reacts, we will strike with much higher intensity, hitting all of their infrastructure.” The Iranians also warned the US not to get involved or face attack.

Despite the looming threat from Iran, Israel’s military has already launched airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, with explosions reported over Beirut early on October 2. Netanyahu has vowed to continue operations against Hezbollah while also preparing for a broader response to Iran’s missile attack.

The crack Golani brigade reportedly entered southern Lebanon. Israeli told residents of two dozen Lebanese villages to evacuate, with an incursion there imminent.

International Reaction

The United States quickly condemned Iran’s attack and offered immediate military support to Israel. A senior U.S. official stated, “We are actively supporting Israel’s defensive preparations and will ensure Iran faces severe consequences for this unprovoked aggression.” U.S. Navy ships in the Mediterranean are reportedly on alert, ready to assist Israeli forces if the conflict escalates further.

Meanwhile, British Defense Secretary John Healey confirmed that UK forces “played their part” in intercepting Iranian missiles aimed at Israel, though he did not elaborate on the specifics of the operation. Western nations, including the U.S. and the UK, are closely monitoring the situation, warning Iran that any further escalation will not go unanswered.

What Comes Next?

With the region on edge, all eyes are on Israel’s next move. While Netanyahu has left open the question of whether Israel will strike Iranian nuclear or energy infrastructure, many experts believe such an escalation is not only possible but likely, given Israel’s history of preemptive strikes on Iranian assets. As former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to hit the now vulnerable Iran, “the head of the octopus.”