Amid unprecedented rising tensions between Israel and Iran, the Israeli government warned today, Friday, against further military strikes within Iranian territory, just hours after the retaliatory attacks launched by Tehran in response to targeting nuclear and military sites on its land.

Escalating Israeli Threats

The spokesperson for the Israeli army stated in an urgent announcement:

“If Iran chooses to continue the attack, it will face a harsher and wider response. We reserve the right to defend ourselves and will strike hard against any threat.”

These statements came after Iran launched a series of drones and missiles targeting sites inside Israel, following Israeli airstrikes that occurred early Friday around Tehran and other cities.

Civilian Casualties and Losses

Iranian state media reported that the Israeli attacks resulted in the death of 24 people, including members of the Revolutionary Guard and civilians, in addition to damage to sensitive installations believed to be part of the Iranian nuclear program.

In contrast, Israeli reports indicated that some Iranian drones were shot down in the air, while others struck facilities near the Negev without causing significant human losses.

Regional Mobilization and International Stances

The United States: Called for restraint but renewed its commitment to Israel's security, while expressing “grave concern” about slipping into an open confrontation.

The United Nations: Called for an immediate halt to escalation and the opening of direct communication channels between the two parties.

The European Union: Described the situation as “critical and out of control,” and called for an emergency session of the Security Council.

Context: A Dangerous Turning Point

Observers estimate that this escalation is the most serious in years and may change the traditional rules of engagement in the region, especially amid indications of a prior “green light” from the U.S. for the Israeli operation, according to reports published in Washington.