SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Iran fired dozens of missiles at Israel early Tuesday, intensifying tensions in the Middle East. Iran fires at least 180 missiles into Israel as regionwide conflict grows 22News spoke with a retired AIC professor who is also a retired Pentagon military officer, about what's next as the situation continues to escalate. Gary Lefort, a former AIC Professor and Military Officer in the Pentagon, spoke with 22News, expanding on the situation in the Middle East, "I think right now we have to see what Israel is going to do. In the past, they have exercised caution but also let Iran know that they do have the capability of pretty much hitting any place in Iran." Tensions in the Middle East are reaching new heights, as hostilities between Israel and Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon unfold. On Tuesday, nearly 200 Iranian ballistic missiles rained over Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, marking Iran's second attack on Israel in just five months. The U.S. is now sending more troops to the Middle East while concerns grow over an all-out regional conflict. "What we are concerned with, with moving those troops in, is not only to prevent an escalation but more importantly to protect the U.S. troops that are already deployed in that area," adds LeFort. The fallout from Tuesday's attack could soon be felt on U.S. soil, from the ever-growing national debt to the state of the economy and oil prices. LeFort adds, "If in response to the attack Iran decides to cut back on oil production that will certainly influence gas prices. " As for the presidential election, just over a month away, LeFort says U.S. involvement in international conflicts have left Americans uneasy. But its still unclear how it will impact voters come November. Both presidential candidates have commented on the missile attack. Vice President Harris has condemned it and reiterated her support for Israel and Trump says this wouldn't have happened if he was president. Local News Headlines Safety experts recommend conducting a maintenance check on your car ahead of the winter season Springfield celebrates Italian Heritage Month with flag raising Author Esmeralda Santiago speaks at Springfield Library Retired Pentagon military officer weighs in on Iran’s missile strikes WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.