Iranian president vows powerful response to Israeli attack

In a televised address to the nation, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a strong warning to Israel, declaring that the Islamic Republic would deliver a "legitimate and powerful" response to what he described as an act of aggression by the "Zionist regime."

Speaking on June 13, President Pezeshkian condemned the alleged Israeli action, calling it a violation of international norms and obligations, and asserted that such provocations would not go unanswered, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

“The Iranian nation and the country's officials will not remain silent in the face of this crime,” Pezeshkian said. “The legitimate and powerful response from the Islamic Republic of Iran will make the enemy regret its foolish action.”

The Iranian president characterised the incident as another demonstration of what he called the “savage and criminal nature” of the Israeli state, accusing it of undermining regional peace and stability.

Highlighting Iran’s broader diplomatic posture, Pezeshkian stated: “Just as the Islamic Republic has made every effort to achieve peace and tranquility in the world and the region and has proven its full readiness for long-term dialogue and confidence-building to the world in the direction of peace, it will also act decisively in response to aggression and legitimate defense of the country's territorial integrity.”

Calling for national unity in the face of external threats, he added, “The Iranian nation will pass through this difficult time like it has in the past — by maintaining its unity and resolve.”

On June 13, Israel launched a large-scale military operation inside Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile sites, and high-ranking military and scientific personnel. Israeli officials say the strikes are part of a broader campaign to neutralise growing threats from Tehran. The attack resulted in major damage, particularly near Natanz, and reportedly killed several senior Iranian figures, including top IRGC commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran accused both Israel and the U.S. of coordinating the assault, though Washington denies involvement. In response, Iran has vowed retaliation, shut down its airspace, and raised regional alert levels. With mass mobilisation underway in Israel and emergency measures declared, the situation risks escalating into a wider regional conflict.

By Vugar Khalilov