Iran's Supreme Leader orders retaliatory attack against Israel

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly instructed the Supreme National Security Council to prepare for a retaliatory strike against Israel, following what he deemed a significant attack by Tel Aviv.

The officials stated that Khamenei's directive came after he reviewed a comprehensive report from senior military leaders regarding damage to Iran’s missile production capabilities, air defence systems in Tehran, vital energy infrastructure, and the main southern port, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Khamenei indicated that not responding to these damages would equate to admitting defeat.

According to the officials, Iranian military leaders are currently compiling a list of potential military targets within Israel. However, they anticipate that any attacks will likely take place after the US elections, as Iran is wary that escalating tensions could inadvertently benefit former President Donald Trump in his re-election bid.

Additionally, Quds Force Commander Esmail Qaani reaffirmed Iran’s support for Hezbollah, which is engaged in conflict with Israel in Lebanon and has faced significant assaults on its leadership and resources.

Israeli officials have also signalled their preparedness for more direct actions against Iran if necessary. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted that recent operations have allowed Israel to inflict greater damage in subsequent strikes, claiming, “Israel today has greater freedom of action in Iran than ever before. We can reach anywhere in Iran according to our needs.”

On October 26, Israel launched an attack on Iranian military sites in retaliation for an Iranian missile strike on October 1, which itself followed Israel's assassination of key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders during their visit to Tehran.

By Vafa Guliyeva