Israel rains UAVs on military base, Iran calls Israeli weapons 'like child's toys'

On April 20, during an interview with NBC, Iranian Foreign Minister Husen Amira Do Lahan mentioned that Tehran is currently investigating the incident involving a UAV being brought down near an air force base located in Isfahan province on the morning of April 19. According to him, these UAVs took off from within Iran, flew a few hundred meters, and were subsequently shot down. He clarified that the incident did not constitute an attack, as the UAVs were deemed to be children's toys rather than actual UAVs. There is no evidence linking them to Israel, he stated. As a result, Foreign Minister Amira Do Lahan indicated that Iran has no plans to retaliate further against Israel unless provoked by new military actions that threaten its interests. However, he warned that if the Israeli government continues to take provocative steps, Iran's response will be swift and at the maximum level, leading to regrettable consequences. On October 19, reports emerged that Israel had attacked an air base within Iranian territory in response to Iran's previous launch of over 300 missiles and UAVs directed at Israel. Despite the New York Times citing satellite images indicating a precise attack by Israel on Iran's Seari air base, focusing on disabling the radar component of the S300 air defense system without significant collateral damage, Israel has maintained silence on the matter. In contrast, Iran denies the incident was a retaliatory attack by Israel, with a senior Iranian official attributing the explosions on October 19 to the activation of the Air Defense System to intercept UAVs in Isfahan. An anonymous western diplomat suggested that Israel had executed the attack on the air force base using missiles fired from outside Iran, while Iran downplays the severity of the situation, reluctant to admit any shortcomings in its air defense capabilities. Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated significantly since the beginning of the month, with both sides engaging in military responses within each other's territories. Despite the potential for broader conflict, both parties appear cautious, as targeting civilians could lead to a direct confrontation between the two long-standing adversaries in the Middle East. The developments on October 19 initially impacted global markets, with oil prices surpassing $90 per barrel and gold prices exceeding $2400, reflecting uncertainties surrounding geopolitical conflicts. The situation prompted investors to shift focus, causing fluctuations in stock indexes and Treasury yields amid concerns over earnings and Federal Reserve policies. Market analysts express heightened concerns over the Middle East situation, particularly regarding escalating oil prices and the threat of inflation due to rising fuel and energy costs. Gold prices have surged continuously, raising worries about prolonged inflationary trends. Experts anticipate that gold prices will remain elevated in the long term, influenced by geopolitical tensions and market expectations of delayed interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Amid these uncertainties, global economic outlooks, particularly driven by strong demand from China and macroeconomic uncertainties, suggest a continued uptrend in gold prices. Following reported retaliatory actions between Israel and Iran, Secretary-General Guterres' spokesman issued a statement condemning any further retaliatory measures and urging international collaboration to prevent escalating hostilities in the region. The Secretary-General emphasized the need to break the cycle of violence between the two nations and called for concerted efforts to avert catastrophic consequences for civilians. In response to reported explosions near Isfahan airport, China urged both parties to exercise restraint, underscoring the importance of de-escalation and international cooperation in averting further turmoil in the Middle East.

Iran and Israel experienced a sudden escalation, causing global surprise. Regional intelligence identified retaliatory attacks between the two countries. Israel halted a trial, aiding Mr. Trump's influence. In the latest news on April 20, Phuong Lan and Khanh Minh highlighted tensions in the Middle East. Iran and Israel showed signs of wanting to end the cycle of attacks. Initial reports mentioned explosions and attacks by drones and missiles. Iran and Israel hinted at de-escalating the crisis. Iran shot down drones near Isfahan, while Israel aimed for a proportionate response. The incident involved smaller UAVs than expected. Experts suggested Israel's cautious approach. The Israeli government remained silent on the matter. The Isfahan incident may signify a temporary peace. Iran is not currently planning immediate retaliation. Drones were shot down in Isfahan, with no reported missile attacks. Reports of explosions near the Isfahan air base emerged. Both sides seem to be stepping back from the crisis. Iran's nuclear facilities in Isfahan were reported safe. Israel's response is targeted and limited. The situation in the Middle East remains uncertain post the recent attacks. Israel's actions could have international repercussions.