[비즈한국] Israel has carried out a preemptive strike against Iran. Israeli Defense Minister Katz stated in a release on the 28th (local time), "We have executed a preemptive strike against Iran to eliminate threats against the State of Israel," adding, "Accordingly, missile and drone attacks targeting the State of Israel and its civilian population are expected in the near future."
According to foreign media, Israel attacked the Iranian capital of Tehran immediately following Minister Katz's announcement. Israel has completely closed its airspace following the airstrikes. Consequently, aircraft scheduled to land in Israel are being diverted to nearby airports. Israel has also ordered the closure of businesses within its territory and issued a nationwide school closure directive.
Foreign media outlets suggest that this Israeli attack may have targeted Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, Reuters reported that the Supreme Leader is currently in a safe location outside of Tehran. According to AFP, Israel’s targets are Iran’s regime and military facilities.
The New York Times (NYT) reported that the U.S. also participated in the airstrikes. Citing a U.S. government official, the NYT stated that the U.S. military is currently conducting airstrikes on Iran. Reuters also reported that "the U.S. is attacking Iran from the sea and the air."
Previously, on the 27th, the U.S. and Iran held nuclear-related negotiations in Geneva. Although discussions were held regarding restrictions on Iran’s nuclear development, no agreement was reached. Regarding the nuclear negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump remarked on the 27th, "I don't like to use it (military force), but sometimes you have to," hinting at potential military intervention. On the 27th, the U.S. State Department also advised some staff and their families at the U.S. Embassy in Israel to evacuate.
According to Reuters, Iran is preparing retaliatory attacks against Israel. If tensions escalate, the possibility of the entire Middle East falling into war cannot be ruled out. In particular, as the U.S. has directly participated in military operations, a resolution to the conflict in the short term is unlikely.