Israel-Iran War: Amid growing international pressure for restraint in the Middle East conflict, Israelis were awaiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's response to Iran's first-ever direct attack on their country. Netanyahu on Monday summoned his war cabinet for the second time in less than 24 hours to deliberate a response to Iran's weekend missile and drone attack.

Herzi Halevi, Israel's military Chief of Staff, affirmed that the country would retaliate, though he did not provide specific details. Speaking at the Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, which sustained damage in the attack, Halevi stated, "This launch of so many missiles, cruise missiles, and drones into Israeli territory will be met with a response."

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- Israel remained on high alert, but authorities lifted some emergency measures that had included a ban on some school activities and limits on large gatherings.

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- The potential for Israeli retaliation has alarmed many Iranians already grappling with economic hardship and increased social and political restrictions following protests in 2022-23.

- Iran launched the attack in retaliation for what it says was an April 1 Israeli airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus.

Iran-Israel War: The recent attack by Iran has intensified the long-standing animosity between the two nations. (Image Credit: Reuters)

- Despite causing no deaths and minimal damage, the attack has increased fears of open warfare between the long-time foes and fuelled concerns that violence rooted in the Gaza war is spreading.

- Meanwhile, the chief of the United Nations nuclear watchdog expressed concerns about the possibility of Israel targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.

- According to reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised the need for a strategic response to Iran's missile attack during a private meeting with ministers from his Likud party.

(With Agencies Inputs)