The Israeli army spokesperson announced on Monday that the individuals killed in the strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus were identified as “terrorists” who were believed to be working against Israel. This statement marked the first official acknowledgment from the army regarding the incident.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari explained during a press conference that those killed in the attack were members of the Quds Force, Hezbollah, and Iranian aides – all of whom he described as terrorists engaged in activities against Israel. He emphasized that there were no diplomats or civilians among the victims, with the casualties mostly consisting of members of the Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Both Tehran and Damascus accused Israel of carrying out the strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, although Israel has not confirmed its involvement. The attack intensified tensions in the region, especially amidst ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas.
In response to the attack, Iran launched a significant assault using drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles on Israel from its territory. An air defense system was deployed by Israel, with the support of the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Jordan, resulting in the interception of a majority of the projectiles.
During a visit to the Nevatim military base in southern Israel, the Israeli army’s chief of staff, Herzi Halevi, vowed to deliver a retaliatory response to the Iranian attack. The incident further escalated the already heightened tensions between the two countries.