Netanyahu Claims Israel Inflicted Serious Damage on Iran; Khamenei Responds
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made statements regarding recent attacks on Iran. According to the AP news agency, Netanyahu stated that Israeli strikes have seriously harmed Iran and achieved all their targets.
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei addressed the situation for the first time today. Khamenei said that Israel’s attacks should neither be exaggerated nor downplayed. He emphasized the need to convey the strength of Iran and its youth to Israel, urging officials to communicate this message effectively.
Israel launched a major attack on Iran early Saturday, deploying over 100 fighter jets. This operation was seen as retaliation for an Iranian strike that occurred on October 1.
Iranian Officials Claim Right to Respond
Iranian officials have asserted their right to retaliate against the Israeli attacks. However, the Iranian military has stated that maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon is crucial before considering any response.
Prior to the attacks on Iran, Israel had targeted radar sites in Syria. Following that, they struck Iran’s air defense systems and radar installations, hitting 20 locations, including missile factories and military bases.
According to Iran’s state news agency Tasnim, at least two Iranian soldiers were killed in the Israeli strikes.
Iran’s Missile Attack on Israel
On October 1, Iran launched a missile attack on Israel, firing 180 missiles over a period of about 30 minutes. Following this assault, Iran stated that it was avenging the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike on September 27 in Beirut.
In a statement after the attack, Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson Daniel Hagari warned that there would be consequences for the assault. Iran had previously launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel in April.
U.S. Appeals to Iran
The United States has urged Iran not to retaliate against the Israeli attacks. According to the BBC, a U.S. official stated that if Iran decides to attack again, they will be prepared for it and that Iran will face consequences. The statement further called for both Israel and Iran to cease hostilities. The U.S. is also ready to work towards a ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza, and seeks the return of hostages held by Israel.