Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a direct order for Iran to strike Israel, following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This significant development comes amid heightened tensions and escalating hostilities in the region.
Emergency Meeting and Immediate Response
At an emergency meeting of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council on Wednesday, Khamenei directed military commanders to prepare for both offensive and defensive operations. This decision follows accusations from Iran and Hamas that Israel was behind Haniyeh’s assassination. Israel, engaged in a prolonged conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has a history of targeting enemies abroad but has not confirmed its involvement in this instance.
Background of the Conflict
Haniyeh’s assassination follows an attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages. This incident has intensified the already volatile situation. Haniyeh was in Tehran for the inauguration of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, when he was killed. Iranian officials, including two members of the Revolutionary Guards, confirmed Khamenei’s order to strike Israel.
Iran’s Historical Context and Recent Attacks
In April, Iran launched one of its most significant attacks on Israel in decades, using hundreds of missiles and drones. This was in response to an Israeli strike on its embassy compound in Damascus, which killed several Iranian military commanders. Despite the show of force, the attack resulted in minimal damage due to effective Israeli defenses.
Potential Retaliation Plans
Iranian military commanders are considering a coordinated drone and missile attack on military targets near Tel Aviv and Haifa, avoiding civilian areas. The plan may include coordinated strikes from allied forces in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. Khamenei emphasized the necessity of avenging Haniyeh’s death, citing it as a duty due to the assassination occurring on Iranian soil.
Regional and International Reactions
Iranian officials have expressed outrage and humiliation over the security breach that led to Haniyeh’s assassination, particularly given the heightened security in Tehran for the presidential inauguration. The killing has been seen as a direct affront to Iran’s security apparatus, raising concerns about the safety of high-ranking officials.
Broader Implications for Iran-Israel Relations
The assassination and subsequent retaliation order underscore the fragile state of Iran-Israel relations and the potential for further escalation. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for power and influence in the region, with Iran seeking to assert its strength and deter future Israeli attacks.
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