Tehran: Reports suggest that Iran may be gearing up for a direct assault on Israel within the next 48 hours, prompting preparations within the Jewish nation.
According to The Wall Street Journal, citing a source briefed by Iranian officials, the possibility of an imminent attack on Israel is being seriously considered.
An adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei disclosed that plans for the strike are currently under review, with careful assessment of the associated political risks.
This potential escalation follows closely on the heels of Iran’s declaration to retaliate against the strike on its consulate in Damascus, Syria, which resulted in the death of a prominent Iranian general and six other military personnel.
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While Iran squarely blames Israel for the attack, Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in the incident.
The assault on Iran’s consulate in Damascus on April 1 marked a significant uptick in Israel’s targeting of Iranian military figures who are known to support militant groups opposed to Israel.
In response to the consulate attack, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed retribution against Israel but emphasized the need to avoid a major escalation in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
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“Iran must respond to Israel’s aggression, but we must exercise restraint,” stated Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the aftermath of the assault.
Iran has signaled its intent to retaliate against Israel while simultaneously advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza, indicating a cautious approach to the situation.
Israel, in turn, has intensified airstrikes on Syria, targeting Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants and members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following Hamas-initiated attacks on southern Israel in October.
