During a visit to Israel, British Foreign Minister David Cameron highlighted Israel's clear intention to retaliate against Iran following recent missile and drone attacks. The attacks by Iran, involving hundreds of projectiles, marked a significant escalation as Iran directly targeted Israel for the first time in decades. These actions were purportedly in response to an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian embassy compound in Damascus earlier in April, resulting in casualties among Iranian officers.
Efforts by world powers are focused on averting further escalation in the Middle East conflict. Despite most of the Iranian missiles and drones being intercepted, Israel feels compelled to respond to maintain its deterrent capability. Iran has indicated a temporary resolution but warned of further retaliation if Israel responds again.
Cameron expressed hope that Israel's response would minimize escalation, urging coordinated sanctions from the Group of Seven (G7) democracies against Iran. The G7, currently meeting in Italy, is expected to send a clear message to Iran through these sanctions.
Israel is preparing to discuss its response in a war cabinet meeting, including centrist rivals in a unity gesture following previous attacks by Hamas. The United States plans to impose new sanctions targeting Iran's missile and drone programs, with expectations for allied nations to follow suit.
European Union officials have discussed expanding sanctions on Iran, focusing on curtailing the supply of drones and missiles to Russia and Iranian proxies in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to significant casualties and ongoing clashes across various Middle Eastern countries. Diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire or end the conflict have so far been unsuccessful, with both sides insisting on their terms.
The civilian death toll and humanitarian crisis have prompted Western countries, initially supportive of Israel's actions against Hamas, to call for an immediate ceasefire. Israel remains determined to continue until Hamas is defeated, while Hamas insists on a truce with a clear plan to end hostilities.
Amidst growing concerns about famine, efforts to deliver aid have improved, but humanitarian agencies stress that current supplies are insufficient to prevent a worsening disaster. The situation remains tense, with appeals for international intervention to halt the conflict and address the urgent humanitarian needs.