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The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have reached a new peak with the recent Israeli airstrikes against Iranian military targets. The strikes, which took place overnight on Saturday, targeted missile factories and other facilities near Tehran and in western Iran. Israel's military confirmed that scores of its jets conducted three waves of strikes before dawn. While Iran acknowledged the attack, it downplayed its impact, stating that only limited damage was caused. However, the Iranian leadership has vowed a response, raising concerns of a potential all-out conflict in the Middle East.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the nation on Sunday, emphasizing that the attack would not go unanswered. He declared that Iran's power should be demonstrated to Israel, but the specific form of retaliation would be decided by officials, taking into consideration the best interests of the country and its people. Khamenei's statement underscores the delicate balancing act facing Iranian leaders: the need to respond forcefully to Israeli aggression while avoiding an escalation that could be detrimental to Iran's national security.
The international community has expressed concerns over the escalating tensions. US President Joe Biden called for a halt to the escalation, urging both sides to exercise restraint and de-escalate the situation. The Biden administration has consistently sought to prevent an all-out conflict in the Middle East, recognizing the potential for regional instability and global ramifications. However, the recent events have highlighted the deep-seated animosity between Iran and Israel, which has been fueled by a long history of conflict, ideological differences, and the struggle for regional dominance.
Source: Iranian Officials Will Decide How To Respond To Israel: Ayatollah Khamenei