What Comes Following Iran’s first direct drone Strike on Israel, as the US Watches?

Israel has heard explosions and air raid sirens as a result of Iran launching hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles in an unprecedented retaliation that is bringing the Middle East closer to all-out conflict.

This is the first time Iran has ever attacked Israel directly with military force. According to Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Center on Military and Political Power, this Iranian strike is unique.

However, Bowman also points out that when democracies are assaulted, this is a chance for the US to show its foes where it stands.

“Everyone is observing. Beijing and Putin, I would believe, are keeping an eye on things. Israel is a hot topic in American discourse. Here’s where we can demonstrate whether or not we are acting following our words; if we do so, we will be furthering American interests in the Middle East. In addition to supporting Israel, we’re telling Beijing and Moscow that we defend embattled democracies against threats, according to Bowman.

Israel’s six-month battle against Hamas militants in Gaza has put Israel and Iran squarely on the defensive. In the Oct. 7 attack, Islamic Jihad and Hamas fighters.