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Israel Strikes Iranian Air Base: Tehran Downplays Attack As Blinken Calls For Calm; Oil Prices Stabilize After Initial Spike

Israel launched a targeted airstrike near an Iranian military airbase overnight, as a retaliatory act to Iran’s aerial attacks that occurred less than a week ago. Although the strike was described as limited, causing neither significant damage to the facility nor casualties, it has intensified uncertainties regarding the risk of a broader escalation within the Middle East. Political Reactions The Jerusalem Post interpreted the strike as Israel sending a “clear message” to Iran, emphasizing the proximity of the target to a key nuclear site and hinting at the potential for more severe actions. Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, labeled the strike as “Feeble!” on social media X. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Ben Gvir’s approach, accusing him of harming Israel’s security and international standing. Iranian officials told Reuters they do not intend to retaliate, signaling a desire to avoid further escalation. …Full story available on Benzinga.com