Flash Points: How will Israel respond to the Iranian attack?

The answer could determine whether the region is heading for all-out war. APRIL 14, 2024  |  [VIEW IN BROWSER](  |  [SUBSCRIBE](     [A demonstrator holds a replica missile shell as people gather in support of Iran's attack on Israel in Tehran's Palestine Square on April 14.]( A demonstrator holds a replica missile shell as people gather in support of Iran's attack on Israel in Tehran's Palestine Square on April 14. Atta Kenare/AFP via Getty Images On Saturday, Iran launched its first-ever direct military attack on Israel, sparking fears of a broader regional war in the Middle East. The assault, which included more than 300 drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles, was in response to a deadly airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria in early April. Israel says it intercepted more than 99 percent of the missiles and drones. The articles below consider the nature of the attack, the events that led up to it, and what this escalation might mean for the future of the Middle East.—Chloe Hadavas   [1]( [How Will Israel Respond to the Iranian Attack?]( The answer could determine whether the region is heading for all-out war. By Daniel Byman, Kenneth M. Pollack   [2]( [Iran Launches Retaliatory Attacks Against Israel]( The strikes mark perhaps the most dangerous moment in the Middle East in recent years. By Jack Detsch, Robbie Gramer   [3]( [How Iran Really Sees the Israel-Hamas War]( Tehran’s relationship to the conflict is not nearly as straightforward as its rhetoric suggests. By Sina Toossi   [4]( [America Has Pressured Israel Before—and Can Do It Again]( In 1991, President George H.W. Bush outraged Israeli leaders by conditioning aid and placing U.S. interests first. By Alia Brahimi   [5]( [How the Gaza War Could Shape Global Politics in 2024]( From India to Germany to the United States, debate over the war could have real electoral consequences. By Amy Mackinnon [Her Power 2024 is here!]( On April 18th explore how economic empowerment for women is economic empowerment for the world. [Register now](.   [Subscribe to Foreign Policy]( [Save up to 50%]( [Choosing an annual plan for your FP subscription allows you to save up to 50%. For nuanced perspectives and insightful geopolitical analysis, subscribe today.]( [SUBSCRIBE NOW](   [Facebook]( [Twitter]( [Instagram]( [LinkedIn]( You’re receiving this email at {EMAIL} because you signed up for FP's Flash Points newsletter. [MANAGE YOUR EMAIL PREFERENCES]( | [VIEW OUR PRIVACY POLICY]( | [UNSUBSCRIBE]( Interested in partnering with FP on events, podcasts, or research? [Explore FP Solutions](. [Foreign Policy]( is a division of Graham Holdings Company. All contents © 2024 Graham Digital Holding Company LLC. All rights reserved. Foreign Policy, 655 15th St NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC, 20005.