The two countries have been fighting a shadow war for years. But direct attacks are bringing direct reprisals, or at least plans for them.
For decades, Iran and Israel have fought a shadow war. This year, their conflict has burst into the open.
Israel’s military is now preparing for a military strike on Iran — a retaliation for Iran launching about 180 ballistic missile at Israel on Oct. 1.
Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, has said his country’s counterattack will be “deadly, precise and above all, surprising.”
The strike, if and when it comes, could widen a regional conflict that erupted with a deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7 last year by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Here’s a look at everything we know about the potential Israeli military action against Iran, and the events that have brought the countries to this point.
Here’s what you need to know:
- When will the strikes take place?
- What are the potential Israeli targets?
- What are Israel’s military capabilities?
- What is the U.S. government’s stance?
- How have Israel and Iran arrived at this point?
Note: Distances shown are centered on Tel Aviv, Israel.
The New York Times
