NewsIran-Israel tensions escalate after Damascus consulate bombing

Iran-Israel tensions escalate after Damascus consulate bombing

Will Iran attack? Americans and Brits warn.

Images source: © East News | Kevin Wolf

12 April 2024 12:47

Tensions between Iran and Israel are escalating. After the Israeli military bombed the Iranian consulate in Damascus, reports have surfaced that Tehran is gearing up for retaliation. There is growing concern in the West about the potential for an escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Both the United States and the United Kingdom have cautioned Iran against launching attacks on Israel.

"We have communicated to Iran that the United States was not involved in the attack that occurred in Damascus, and we've warned Iran not to use this attack as a pretext for further escalation in the region, including attacking American facilities or personnel," stated White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Thursday.

In the bombing that took place last week, seven members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, including two generals responsible for Iran's overseas military operations, were killed.

Washington is now applying pressure on countries that wield considerable influence in the Middle East. The State Department announced that Secretary Antony Blinken has been discussing the regional situation with the foreign ministers of Turkey, China, and Saudi Arabia. The diplomat emphasized that an escalation of conflict in the Middle East benefits no one.

The British Foreign Secretary is also actively involved in diplomatic efforts to ease the tension. David Cameron has recently spoken to Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

"Today, I told Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian that Iran must not drag the Middle East into a broader conflict. The possibility of a miscalculation leading to further violence deeply concerns me. Iran should focus on de-escalation and preventing further attacks," Cameron posted on X.

Iran warns Israel, Tel Aviv stands firm

Despite these diplomatic efforts, the stance of the Israeli authorities suggests a reluctance to de-escalate the conflict with Iran.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in a discussion with Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin, asserted that "any direct attack by Iran on Israel will elicit a proportional response from us."

"We have adopted a straightforward principle: if anyone attacks us, we will retaliate," declared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.