In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, the Israeli military launched a strike near a major air base and nuclear site in Iran early Friday. This marked Israel's first military response to Tehran's attack over the weekend, which had involved drones and missiles targeting Israel.

Iranian officials confirmed that the strike, carried out by at least three drones, hit a military base near the city of Isfahan in the center of the country. However, they downplayed the effectiveness of the attack, stating that it had caused no significant damage.

Israel, on the other hand, responded in a restrained manner, aiming to avoid further escalation of tensions between the two nations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously emphasized Israel's determination to defend itself, but following the relatively small drone attack, Israeli officials remained mostly quiet.

The attack by Israel came in retaliation for the unprecedented drone and missile assault launched by Iran on April 13. Tehran had claimed that this attack was a response to Israel's airstrike on the Iranian Consulate in Syria on April 1. While Israel and Iran have engaged in a covert shadow war for years, Iran's recent direct military assault on Israel was a significant escalation.

According to defense experts, Israel's calculated strike aimed to restore deterrence and discourage further Iranian attacks on Israeli soil. The targeted area included Iranian military sites, including nuclear research facilities, the Natanz uranium enrichment site, an air base, and a missile production factory. Satellite images obtained by CNN indicated no apparent destruction at the military location.

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper noted that Israel's message was clear: they can hit Iran where it hurts. The strike was not intended to cause widespread damage or casualties, but rather to demonstrate Israel's capability to reach sensitive sites within Iran.

U.S. President Joe Biden had advised Israel to exercise restraint in its response to Iran's attack, citing the successful interception of Iranian missiles and drones. However, U.S. officials were not convinced that Israel would refrain from retaliating and reportedly sought advance warning of any planned response.

The White House remained quiet about the Israeli strike, reflecting its desire to maintain some distance from its ally's actions. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the need to reduce the risk of further escalation in the region and stated that consultations with allies and partners, including in the region, were ongoing.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking at a meeting of foreign ministers in Italy, emphasized that the United States had not been involved in any offensive operations and reaffirmed their focus on supporting Israel's self-defense while seeking to de-escalate tensions.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community closely watches the dynamics between Israel and Iran, hoping to prevent further escalation and potential conflict in the region.