2- What was the legal basis for Iran‘s attack?

Article 51 of the UN Charter states that „nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security.“ This article recognizes the right of countries to defend themselves against armed attacks.

3- Is Iran‘s attack on Israel the beginning of a war?

In its attack, Iran used its less advanced weaponry in relatively low quantity. It also made sure that no infrastructure or civilian sites were hit during the operation. Iranian military leaders have explicitly explained that they are not looking for a war and that the attack was meant to send a message to Israel.