Israel decided against a widespread counterstrike on Iran due to diplomatic pressure from the US and allies and because the Iranian assault on Israeli soil had been largely thwarted. Instead, Israel conducted a limited strike to avoid escalation, aiming to demonstrate its military capabilities without provoking a forceful Iranian response. The decision followed a series of events, including an attack on an Iranian embassy complex and heightened tensions with Iran. Despite initial plans for a broader response, Israel ultimately opted for a more restrained action to send a message to Iran while avoiding a significant escalation in the region.