Media release: The Embassy of Israel in NZ…
In light of recent developments, we wish to provide you with an important update regarding the direct attack on Israel by Iran.
Updated Information on the Iranian Attack:
Since the October 7 massacre that was perpetrated Hamas, an Iranian proxy organization that relies on Iranian funding, training, and materials, Israel has been fighting Iranian proxies in the region: Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), Hezbollah, Ansar Allah (the Houthis) and Shia militias in Iraq.
After many years during which Iran hid behind its proxies in its attempts to sow terror, spread warfare and destabilize the region, for the first time Iran has emerged from behind the shadows to reveal its identity as a terrorist state, doing so in an unmistakable and undeniable manner.
The hundreds of UAVs, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles that Iran launched could have caused mass civilian casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure in Israel, just like they harm civilians and damage infrastructure in Ukraine on a daily basis.
The only reasons why the Iranian regime failed in its goal of causing widespread death and destruction in Israel can be found in Israel’s air defense capabilities and the assistance of its allies in thwarting the attack.
The Iranian threat to Israel’s existence and world peace:
This attack was the culmination of years of Iranian threats and statements about its ambition to destroy Israel. It provided a clear illustration of and proof that even if Iran did not achieve its goal last night, these are not idle threats and Iran is determined to carry them out. These threats must be addressed as such and Iran should be treated accordingly.
No country could accept threats to its very existence and Israel is no different. Israel will not tolerate the threats Iran poses to it and will respond strongly to any attempt to cause it harm. Israel will ensure that neither Iran nor its proxy organizations will pose a threat to its citizens.
This attempt to harm Israel, which was carried out, among other methods, by using the same UAVs that are deployed against the citizens of Ukraine, provides yet another example that Iran’s harmful influence is not limited to our region; rather, it constitutes a direct threat to world peace.
Measures and sanctions against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iran:
As a first step, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) – which was behind the attack and behind the various Iranian proxy organizations – must be immediately designated as a terrorist organization.
As Israel has warned time and time again, Iran’s attack unequivocally showed that the world cannot afford for Iran to possess strategic capabilities, such as the nuclear capabilities that it continuously strives to develop, the ballistic capabilities whose implications when held by Iran were demonstrated last night, or the space capabilities it is working to attain.
If the world does not learn to block Iran and deny it obtaining strategic capabilities, it may well find these capabilities in the hands of Iran’s emissaries, and discover that the Iranian UAVs being used daily in attacks on Ukraine are just an example of the harm caused by Iran to world peace.
As may be recalled, the international sanctions regime that was imposed on Iran’s missile industry in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2231 expired six months prior to the unprecedented missile and UAV attack, which clearly demonstrates that Iran is prepared to utilize every military and strategic capability at its disposal.
The attack accentuated the necessity of imposing and expanding alternative and comprehensive sanctions regimes on the Iranian missile and UAV industries as a replacement for the sanctions regime that expired in October 2023, as well as the urgent need to stop and reverse Iran’s nuclear program while it is still possible.
Earlier media release: National Talking Points on Recent Iranian Attack and Ongoing Hostage Situation
On the evening of April 13, 2024, Israel experienced a severe and unprecedented direct attack from Iran. This aggressive act involved the launching of hundreds of missiles and UAVs targeting Israel, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Key Points:
1. Defence and Interception Success: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF), in coordination with international forces, successfully intercepted 99% of the 331 missiles and UAVs launched during this assault. This effective defence underscores Israel’s preparedness and advanced capabilities in safeguarding its citizens.
2. Regional Destabilization: Iran’s actions continue to destabilize the Middle East and pose significant risks to regional peace through the use of proxy forces against Israel and the international community.
3. International Solidarity: The United States and other global allies have expressed their solidarity with Israel. There is a pressing need for the international community to respond decisively to curb Iran’s aggressive postures and prevent its pursuit of nuclear capabilities.
4. Ongoing Efforts and Hostage Situation:
The State of Israel continues to negotiate and apply military pressure to secure the release of 133 hostages still held by the Hamas terrorist organization. Despite facing stubborn resistance and unreasonable demands from Hamas, efforts persist to devise a resolution framework that will facilitate their safe return.
Israel is unwavering in its commitment to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of all its regions, allowing for the peaceful return of residents to their homes in the south and north.
