started. Israel launched an airstrike on a key Iranian commander in the Syrian capital Damascus, ending a two-week “sham war” of threats and counterattacks.
Unlike previous skirmishes in which Iran waged war from behind Hamas, Lebanon's Hezbollah, and Yemen's Houthi rebels, last night's fighting marked a significant escalation.
In a chilling twist, the Middle East's two military powers have begun trading punches head-to-head in a heavyweight bout that could wreak dire havoc not only on each other but on the global economy.
A major artery of global trade in oil and natural gas passes through the region, as well as Europe's imports of goods from China, Japan, and South Korea.
Objects seen over Jerusalem after Iran launches drones and missiles towards Israel Missiles begin to enter Israeli airspace on Saturday night, and images from international media show the missiles being intercepted by the Iron Dome system over Jerusalem It became clear that
International shipping has never been more at risk. We saw this yesterday when Iranian special forces seized an Israeli-owned container ship in the Persian Gulf.
Again, this is not an act of piracy committed by Iranian proxies in the Red Sea. This is a gross act of aggression carried out by Tehran itself.
Israel's next move is important. If the country's Iron Dome anti-missile defense system slows this onslaught by shooting down most of Iran's drones and missiles, there may perhaps be a chance for tensions to ease.
However, if Israel believes it can make further progress and neutralize an Iranian attack, it may decide to take the initiative.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could attack Iranian launch sites and nuclear facilities before Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi retaliates. But it's a big job.
Britain and the United States have been trying for six months to silence Yemen's much weaker Houthis, without success. Will either side be able to back down?
The Revolutionary Guards, whose senior commander was assassinated by Israel on April 1, are Tehran's enforcers at home and abroad.
Iranians celebrate in the streets after the Revolutionary Guards attack on Israel in Tehran, Iran
It will be difficult to back away from the brink amid pressure on the country's mullahs to launch drones into Israel.
Hardliners who maintain power in Israel will push for continued attacks not only on Israel directly, but also on allies such as Britain and the United States. Israeli ships and embassies will be the main targets.
Leaving now is not an option for either side or for Britain.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is committed to Britain's support for our allies and should not waver.
Any lapse in Western resolve will only encourage adversaries beyond the Middle East, such as Russia and China. Great power rivals eagerly await weaknesses to advance their own territorial goals. These are very worrying times.
