US-Israeli military attack on Iran: First casualties in Israel • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Operation Roaring Lion: The Israeli military operation launched in response to Iranian actions.
• Iranian Retaliation: The escalating series of missile and drone attacks launched by Iran against Israel.
• Existential Threat: The widely held Israeli belief that Iran, particularly with nuclear ambitions, poses a fundamental threat to Israel’s existence.
• Israeli Air Defense Systems: Systems utilized to intercept incoming missiles and drones.
• Political Opposition Criticism: Concerns raised by Israeli opposition parties regarding the lack of proper procedure and transparency surrounding the operation.
• Reserve Mobilization: The call-up of over 100,000 Israeli reserve soldiers.

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Intensifying Iranian Retaliation & Initial Israeli Response

The situation in Israel is marked by an intensifying rhythm of Iranian retaliatory attacks. Following a period of relative calm during the day, sirens are sounding frequently as evening approaches, with the size of incoming barrages increasing – moving from single missiles or small groups to larger numbers. Israeli air defenses have, thus far, successfully intercepted the majority of these missiles and drones, including one that infiltrated via the Dead Sea area. However, casualties have been reported in Benbra, a town adjacent to Tel Aviv, resulting from shards of an Israeli interceptor missile hitting a building, wounding several people, including a young girl.

Despite the ongoing attacks, there has been a notable lack of clear, substantial statements from Israeli leadership – the Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, or even the army – beyond routine instructions to remain near or inside bomb shelters. The Prime Minister’s earlier video announcement largely echoed President Trump’s stated desire to topple the Iranian regime, offering little clarity on the anticipated duration or objectives of the conflict.

Israeli State of Mind & Concerns Regarding Operation Roaring Lion

There is a widespread understanding among Israelis that Iran, particularly with its nuclear ambitions, represents an existential threat. This belief underpins the current operation, despite the disruption to daily life – with citizens largely remaining at home or in shelters since the first sirens sounded at 8:00 AM. The Prime Minister’s call for Israelis to risk their lives and livelihoods to “free the people of Iran” has been met with skepticism, particularly given the recent conclusion of a war following the October 7th attack.

Significant criticism has emerged from the Israeli political opposition regarding the procedures leading up to “Operation Roaring Lion.” Concerns center on the lack of a cabinet vote and parliamentary discussion, violating established norms. Labor Party parliamentarian Naama Lazimi specifically highlighted the inappropriate and misleading nature of the announcements made to the Israeli public.

Anticipated US Involvement & Regional Implications

For weeks, Israelis were led to believe that repercussions would stem from a potential US strike against Iran, with Israel anticipating the fallout. The surprise was that the Israeli Air Force initiated attacks before any confirmed joint US-Israeli action.

Over 100,000 Israeli reserve soldiers have been mobilized, not only for air defense but also to reinforce borders with Lebanon and Syria. The situation in Lebanon is particularly sensitive, as Hezbollah has not yet determined its response to the attack against its sponsor, Iran.

Exhaustion & Uncertainty

It is currently too early to definitively predict how Israelis will respond to this operation. However, there is a palpable sense of exhaustion from war within the country, raising questions about public support for a prolonged conflict. As stated, “It’s too early to know exactly how Israelis will respond. But you’re right to ask because there is a generalized exhaustion from war in this country.”