SUMMARY

The Middle East stands on the precipice of regional war after Iran launched a massive attack on Israel with at least 180 ballistic missiles. The majority of the incoming missiles were intercepted by Israel, according to Israeli Defense Forces.

The attack comes after two weeks of deadly fighting between Israel and Hezbollah — including the killing of several high-ranking Hezbollah officials and hundreds of civilians in Lebanon, with thousands more wounded.

UPDATE: To learn more about the attacks that continue to happen in Lebanon, watch the story Israel continues raids in Lebanon while weighing response to Iran’s missile attack.

View the transcript of the story.

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. Who are the individuals and groups featured in the story?
2. Why did Iran attack Israel?
3. What might happen as a result of Iran's attack, according to this story?
4. Where are Iran, Lebanon and Israel located?
5. How do these events relate to the war in Gaza? How have civilians been affected by the attacks?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

1. How do you think the international community including the United States should respond to the attacks and the threat of a larger regional war in the Middle East?
2. What role do you think diplomacy should play in resolving the conflict?

Media literacy: How could you find out more about the reasons behind the recent attacks between Lebanon and Israel?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?

FOR MORE

What students can do: Learn more about Iran's attack through this discussion with two longtime watchers of the region. Media literacy: Do you think these experts provided differing perspectives on the situation? Who else would you like to have heard from?

Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources.