Iran's Surprising Pre-Warning of Drone and Missile Attack on Israel: A Clash of Statements
Iran reportedly gave advance notice of its drone and missile attack on Israel to Turkey, Jordan, and Iraq, but the US was not warned.
The attack came in response to a suspected Israeli strike on Iran's embassy compound in Syria.
Most of the drones and missiles were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory, but a young girl was critically injured and there were concerns of further escalation.
Iran's Foreign Minister claimed that 72 hours' notice was given to neighboring countries and the US.
Turkey acted as an intermediary and spoke to both Tehran and Washington before the attack.
Iran claimed that its response to Israel's attack on its embassy in Damascus would be limited, but a US official denied that Iran had given a 72-hour warning before the strikes.
The official stated that Iran only notified the US after the attacks began and the intent was to be destructive.
The US official also suggested that Iran's claim of giving a widespread warning may have been an attempt to downplay the lack of significant damage from the attack.
Turkey, meanwhile, expressed awareness of the situation and did not find the developments surprising.
The US received a message from Iran through the Swiss embassy during an ongoing attack, indicating they were finished but the attack was still ongoing.
Iraqi, Turkish, and Jordanian officials claimed Iran had given early warnings about the attack last week, including details about the use of drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.
The potential for major casualties and conflict escalation was high.
US officials had expected an imminent attack and urged Iran against it, with Biden directly telling Tehran "Don't." Two Iraqi sources reported that Iran had informed Bagdad about the attack at least three days prior.
Iran informed Iraqi and Arab officials, including the US, in advance about an upcoming attack on US forces in Iraq.
The exact timing was not disclosed, but Iraq was able to close its airspace to prevent accidents.
Iran summoned Arab envoys in Tehran to inform them of the attack, and reportedly provided details about the targets and weapons.
The US was informed through diplomatic channels, and Iran intended to conduct the attack in a way to avoid provoking a response.
The text discusses the uncertainty of whether escalation between Israel and Iran can be prevented.
The US has informed Israel that the US will not participate in any Israeli retaliation.
However, Israel is still considering its response and intends to take action against Iran at a time and in a way that suits them.
Minister Benny Gantz of Israel has stated that they will "exact the price" from Iran.