In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran would face severe consequences for its recent missile attacks against Israel.
Speaking to his security cabinet, Netanyahu emphasized that the Islamic Republic “made a big mistake” and would be held accountable for its actions.
This statement comes in the wake of Iran’s second strike against Israel in a matter of months, heightening fears of an all-out war in the region.
Netanyahu’s comments underscored Israel’s determination to defend itself and retaliate against its adversaries.
“The regime in Tehran does not understand our determination to defend ourselves and to exact a price from our enemies,” he stated, signaling that Israel’s military response would be significant and uncompromising.
The situation has drawn concern from international observers, particularly the United States. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan characterized the Iranian attacks as a “significant escalation” in tensions, hinting at possible repercussions.
Both Washington and Jerusalem have ramped up their verbal threats in response to the attacks, with Iran warning it would retaliate against any actions taken by Israel.
Adding to the charged atmosphere, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning to Israel through a Hebrew message on X, formerly known as Twitter.
He claimed that any reprisals would lead to stronger and more painful attacks against Israel, describing the actions against the “Zionist regime” as part of a broader struggle.
In a pointed reminder of Israel’s military capabilities, Netanyahu referenced past operations against Iranian officials, including the assassination of nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
He warned Tehran that those who underestimate Israel’s resolve would soon learn otherwise. “There are probably those in Tehran who do not understand our military stance, but they will understand,” he asserted.
The Israeli Prime Minister reiterated a clear message regarding Israel’s military doctrine: “Whoever attacks us – we attack them.”
This principle, he stated, applies not only to Iran but also to conflicts in Judea and Samaria, Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria. “We are fighting the axis of evil everywhere,” he declared, referencing ongoing military operations in southern Lebanon and Gaza.
In his remarks, Netanyahu called for a unified international response against Iran’s regime, labeling it the source of terror and instability in the region.
“Today, more than ever, the forces of light in the world must unite and work together against the ayatollahs’ dark regime,” he urged.
He framed the current conflict as a clear choice between tyranny and freedom, seeking solidarity from nations around the world to stand alongside Israel in its fight against perceived threats.
As tensions continue to escalate, the prospect of a wider conflict looms large, with the potential for further military action from both sides.
The situation remains fluid, and the international community watches closely, aware that any miscalculation could lead to dire consequences for the entire region.