The Tasnim news agency, citing an Iranian army statement, reported that two Iranian soldiers were killed in Israel’s overnight strike on the country. The soldiers died “while countering projectiles” launched by Israel, according to the statement, which added that more details would be released soon.
Israel’s military said its strikes on Iran were in response to “months of continuous attacks from the regime in Iran against the State of Israel,” while Iran had earlier claimed the strikes caused “limited damage.”
In a separate statement, Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the Israeli attacks on “several military centres” as a “clear violation” of international law. The ministry asserted that Tehran “considers itself entitled and obligated to defend itself against foreign acts of aggression.”
The statement emphasized Iran’s commitment to using “all the material and spiritual capabilities of the Iranian nation to defend its security and vital interests,” as well as its duties towards maintaining regional peace and security. It called on all countries in the region to take collective responsibility for protecting peace.
The foreign ministry identified Israel’s operations in Gaza and Lebanon as “the main cause of tension and insecurity” in the Middle East. It urged UN members to take “urgent and collective action” against what it deemed “gross violations of international law and the UN charter.”
The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have raised concerns about the stability of the region, with the international community closely monitoring the situation. The reported deaths of the Iranian soldiers and Iran’s assertion of its right to self-defense may further complicate efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
As the situation continues to develop, diplomatic efforts will be crucial in preventing a full-scale confrontation between the two nations and ensuring the safety and security of civilians in the affected areas.