Iran has issued a warning to Israel, stating that any retaliation to its recent drone and missile strike would prompt a larger-scale attack.
Additionally, Iran threatened to target U.S. bases if Washington supports Israel in any military action against Tehran.
Over 300 drones and missiles were launched by Iran towards Israel on Saturday night in response to an April 1 strike on an Iranian consular building in Damascus, Syria, which resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including two senior Iranian generals.
President Joe Biden confirmed that U.S. forces assisted Israel in intercepting “nearly all” of the drones and missiles and announced plans to convene with allies for a coordinated diplomatic response.
Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, the chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces, warned that any Israeli retaliation would be met with a significantly larger response from Iran.
Bagheri also communicated through the Swiss Embassy that any U.S. backing of Israeli retaliation would result in U.S. regional bases becoming targets.
President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran declared that Israel had learned “an unforgettable lesson,” cautioning against further actions that would provoke a firm and regrettable response from Iran.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, emphasized that Iran’s recent operation was an act of legitimate defense and stated that while Iran currently has no intention of continuing offensive operations, it will defend its legitimate interests if necessary.
Amir-Abdollahian clarified during a meeting with foreign ambassadors that Iran does not intend to target U.S. forces or bases, but warned countries hosting U.S. bases that they will be at risk if used to support Israeli military actions.
The recent attack marks the first time Iran has directly launched a military assault from its own territory towards Israel amid the ongoing shadow war between the two nations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded, emphasizing interception and unity but refraining from specifying Israel’s future actions.
These events unfold against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions following Israel’s previous conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
