Iran to launch 100 ballistic missiles towards Israel.

Iran to launch 100 ballistic missiles towards Israel.

Iran has announced its intention to launch 100 ballistic missiles towards Israel in retaliation for the recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and military sites. The threat comes as tensions between the two countries reach a new high following the preemptive attack by Israel, which has been targeting Iran's nuclear program and ballistic missile arsenal.

The Israeli airstrikes, part of "Operation Rising Lion," targeted key Iranian sites, including the Natanz uranium enrichment facility and the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation resulted in the reported deaths of several top Iranian commanders, including the IRGC's commander, General Hossein Salami, and the Iranian Chief of Staff, General Mohammad Bagheri.

In response to the Israeli strikes, Iran has threatened to retaliate with a massive missile attack. The Iranian government has stated that the attack will involve 100 ballistic missiles, aiming to hit multiple targets in Israel. This escalation follows a series of retaliatory drone attacks by Iran against Israel, which saw Israeli air defenses intercepting most of the Iranian drones.

The international community has urged de-escalation and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has stated that the region is not close to a nuclear conflict but has emphasized the need for de-escalation efforts. The U.S. has also warned Iran not to target U.S. interests or personnel, while Israel has prepared for potential retaliatory strikes from Iran.

The financial markets have reacted to the escalating tensions, with benchmark Brent crude oil prices spiking due to the uncertainty surrounding the conflict. The U.S. Embassy in Israel has ordered American personnel to shelter in place, and the Trump administration has ordered non-emergency U.S. personnel to leave Iraq and allowed U.S. military family members to leave the Middle East voluntarily.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran raises significant geopolitical and economic risks. The potential for further escalation could disrupt energy supplies and impact global financial markets. Investors and financial professionals are advised to monitor the situation closely and consider the potential implications for their portfolios.

References:
[1] https://apnews.com/article/iran-explosions-israel-tehran-00234a06e5128a8aceb406b140297299
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/iran-israel-drone-attack-retaliation-strikes-on-nuclear-sites-and-commanders/