The Iranian government has vowed swift retaliation against Israel and the United States following a series of airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of several top Iranian military commanders, including General Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guard, and General Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces. The strikes, which targeted key military and nuclear sites, have escalated tensions in the region, raising concerns of a broader conflict.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, condemned the attacks, calling them an act of aggression and promising a “harsh punishment” for those responsible. Iranian armed forces spokesperson Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi stated that Israel and the U.S. “will pay a heavy price” for their actions. Tehran has already begun its retaliation campaign, launching more than 100 drones toward Israeli territory, according to Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson Effie Defrin.
The Israeli government has defended its actions, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming that the strikes were a preemptive measure aimed at neutralizing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and military threats. The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” targeted Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities and key military figures. The U.S. has denied direct involvement in the strikes, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio warning Iran against targeting American interests.
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. Jordan has closed its airspace due to the “military escalation” in the region, while the U.S. has begun evacuating embassy personnel across the Middle East. The United Nations has urged both sides to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to prevent further violence.