In an unprecedented move on Saturday, Iran launched a direct attack on Israel, launching an estimated 350 suicide drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and rockets – from Iran, Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon – at Israel. with about 60 tons of warheads and explosives. The Iranian threat was countered by the air and technological superiority of the Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) along with a powerful fighting coalition that included the US, UK, France and others – which together intercepted the vast majority – 99% of threats .

The attack should be judged by its intentions and not its results, although the success of the interception of the attack, which prevented hundreds of funerals in Israel, was notable.

The republic of Israel is currently in conflict with various terrorist organizations. These include Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Shiite militias in Iraq and Syria, and the Houthis in Yemen. These Iranian proxies are all part of Iran’s terror network in the Middle East, supporting the war waged by Hamas against us, while many of them participated in the Iranian strike against Israel.

The audacity of Iran’s direct attack not only revealed the tight control of its terrorist proxy network, but also highlighted its willingness to disrupt global stability. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has directed terrorist acts against Israel. Beyond the immediate threat to Israel, Iran’s actions have broader implications, including its interference with freedom of navigation—a cornerstone of global trade and security. In particular, the piracy against a ship by the IRGC further underscores the regime’s disregard for international norms and its readiness to escalate tensions.

Condemnation of Iran’s aggression has echoed around the world, with many nations standing in solidarity with Israel and affirming its right to self-defense. However, mere verbal condemnation is not enough. We need more than words. We need action. The failure of the international community to exert effective pressure on Iran has emboldened it in its aggression, and it is not the first time. The unprecedented attack on Israel and the seizure of a ship sailing in the Gulf on the same day are just two recent examples. Anyone who believes in peace and stability in the Middle East and countries working together for the prosperity and good of their societies must unite against the extremism of the Ayatollahs.

Iran must face tangible consequences for its actions. Chief among these should be the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization. It is the terrorist arm and branch of a state that does not respect international law.

In addition, punitive measures, including targeted painful sanctions, must be imposed on Iran, particularly in areas related to its missile and drone programs. The same Iranian drones that were launched against Israel are being used against Ukraine. The same missiles that hit ships in the Red Sea were fired at Israel. These programs not only pose a direct threat to regional security, but also contribute to instability on a global scale, as evidenced by Iran’s involvement in conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East.

The urgency of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons cannot be overstated. Just imagine the Iranian Ayatollah regime with nuclear weapons given its aggressiveness and its support for terrorism. It has not abandoned its nuclear ambitions, ignoring International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards. Allowing Iran to acquire nuclear capabilities would pose an unprecedented threat not only to Israel but to the entire region and the world at large.

In the face of Iran’s unrelenting hostility, Israel has demonstrated its unwavering determination to defend itself and its people. Israel is still considering its response to Iran’s brazen attack. This commitment to self-defense will remain strong whether in the face of direct attacks from Iran or by thwarting the activities of its terrorist proxies.

As the international community grapples with the complex dynamics of the Middle East, it must confront the reality of Iran’s destabilizing influence and take decisive action to curb its aggression. Only through a joint dynamic and coordinated effort can the spread of conflict and extremism be contained, paving the way for a safer and better future for all the nations of the region.