After Iran retaliated against an Israeli attack, Australia has issued an upgraded travel warning for Israel. This comes as part of an ongoing operation by Israel to eliminate what they believe is Iran's nuclear threat.

Key Points

• Israel's military reported that Iran launched approximately 100 drones towards Israel.
• Iranian media stated that the leader of the Revolutionary Guards Corps has been killed.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will continue its attacks for as long as necessary.

Australians have been advised not to travel to Israel following the recent Israeli military strike on Iran, which led to retaliation. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade had previously issued 'do not travel' advisories for certain parts of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. However, the travel advice has now been elevated to the highest level due to the escalating security situation.

Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes after targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders in Iran. The Israeli military reported intercepting around 100 drones launched by Iran.

Israel's Attack on Iran

Israel conducted an attack on Iran using over 200 fighter jets that struck more than 100 targets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) confirmed the death of a top commander, Hossein Salami, and reported damage to their headquarters in Tehran. Iran's Tasnim news agency mentioned the deaths of six nuclear scientists in the attacks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of Operation Rising Lion to counter the Iranian nuclear threat. Israel claims that Iran is close to developing a nuclear weapon, a claim that Iran denies.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, condemned Israel's actions and warned of severe consequences. The United States distanced itself from the military operation, although an Israeli official stated that coordination with Washington had taken place.

Reactions and Concerns

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed concern over the escalation of tensions in the region and emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged all parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the volatile region.

US President Donald Trump reiterated the stance that Iran should not have nuclear capabilities and expressed a desire to return to negotiations. Iran has insisted on its right to nuclear technology for civilian purposes and rejected demands to abandon enrichment.

Iran's government criticized Israel's attack as cowardly and reaffirmed its commitment to nuclear technology and missile development. President Trump scheduled a meeting with the US National Security Council to discuss the situation.

Sources: SBS Australia