Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, issued a direct threat against Iran, stating that Israel would retaliate with strikes on Iranian territory if Iran were to launch attacks from its own soil. This statement comes amidst escalating tensions between the two countries following the deaths of Iranian generals in an explosion at the Iranian consulate in Syria. Katz made the declaration in both Farsi and Hebrew, underscoring the seriousness of the warning.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reaffirmed Iran’s intention to retaliate against Israel for the attack on its consulate in Damascus earlier in the month.
Khamenei condemned the strike, holding Israel responsible for the incident, which resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including seven Iranian Revolutionary Guard members, four Syrians, and a Hezbollah militia member. Despite Israel not officially acknowledging its involvement, tensions have heightened, with both sides anticipating further confrontations.
Israel May Strike Iran if Attacked from Iranian Territory (Credits: Stars and Stripes)
Khamenei, speaking at a prayer ceremony marking the end of Ramadan, likened the attack on the consulate to an assault on Iranian territory, emphasizing the severity of the incident from Iran’s perspective. He vowed that the “evil regime” of Israel would face consequences for its actions, though he did not specify the nature of Iran’s intended retaliation.
Neither Katz nor Khamenei elaborated on the precise methods of retaliation, leaving the situation open to interpretation and speculation. The lack of clarity adds to the uncertainty surrounding the already tense relationship between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Khamenei also criticized Western powers, particularly the United States and Britain, for their support of Israel in its conflict with Hamas in Gaza, accusing them of failing to fulfill their obligations in preventing Israeli actions.
Iran’s support for anti-Israeli militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah underscores its stance against Israel, which it does not recognize. The ongoing hostility between Iran and Israel, exacerbated by recent events, points to a precarious situation in the region, with the potential for further escalation and conflict looming large.
