Israel and its allies intercepted a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones, sparking speculation about the impact on the Gaza conflict. The Iranian strike was in retaliation for an alleged Israeli attack in Damascus. Israeli analysts debated whether a direct confrontation with Iran would shift the dynamics in Gaza. The potential invasion of Rafah, a Hamas stronghold, hangs in the balance. Prime Minister Netanyahu remains committed to the operation despite international pressure. A broader cease-fire involving multiple parties could bring an end to the conflict. The war cabinet in Israel is preparing to respond to the Iranian assault. Stay updated on the latest developments on www.nytimes.com.
