In the aftermath of one of the most dramatic nights in its history, Israel opened its airspace following Iran’s first direct attack. The nation grappled with how to respond to the attack, focusing on two strategic concepts – defense and strike – that are integral to its security concept.
The defensive shield, created in response to missiles fired by Iraq during the Gulf War in 1991, proved effective but was not enough to prevent Iran from carrying out its promise of revenge for the deaths of seven Revolutionary Guard officers in Damascus two weeks earlier.
As Israeli citizens emerged from shelters and sealed rooms, the country celebrated the success of its defensive systems and combat fighters in repelling the unprecedented drone and missile attack from Iran. The toll of the attack was limited, with minor damage and few injuries.
The Israeli cabinet debated the form and timing of its response, balancing the desire for de-escalation from its ally, the United States, with the need to address the Iranian threat. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister Benny Gantz, considered various options for a response. The US President, Joe Biden, recommended restraint, highlighting the success of Israel’s defensive capabilities.
After analyzing the night’s events, including the intercept of numerous drones and missiles, Israel praised its defensive systems. However
