Israeli air strikes kill two at Iranian military sites

Israeli forces conducted air strikes on military targets in Iran overnight from Friday to Saturday. Two Iranian soldiers died in the attacks, according to a report by the state-run media outlet, IRNA. Israeli conducted military strikes in Tehran, the southwestern province of Khuzestan and the western province of Ilam, IRNA reported. Iranian Government Spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said the attacks caused only minor damage.

The strikes have been anticipated for some time. Iran earlier in October launched nearly 200 missiles at Israel—its second such strike in less than a year. Israel had publicly said at the time it would respond precisely and lethally at a time of its own choosing.

What did Israel say about the attacks? Targeted, precise hits on military targets were meant to thwart immediate threats to the state of Israel, according to a video statement by IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. He added that if Iran made the mistake of further escalating the conflict, Israel would respond again. He noted that Iran and the militias it supports have been attacking Israel since Oct. 7, 2023.

What is the U.S. position? Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on Saturday evening spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Israel's security and right to self-defense, according to an official summary of the call. Austin also noted that the United States has moved more forces to the Middle East to defend U.S. personnel there, as well as Israel and other U.S. partners in the region.