Tehran, Iran – Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Iran has ordered its military forces to remain on high alert for potential conflict with Israel while aiming to avoid direct warfare. Iranian officials have indicated that the scope and intensity of Iran’s response would hinge on the severity and nature of Israel’s anticipated retaliation.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly mandated that a response is certain if Israeli attacks target critical infrastructure, including oil facilities, nuclear sites, or Iranian leaders. The directive follows heightened hostilities, with concerns that an Israeli strike may trigger a broader regional conflict.
Reports suggest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has assured U.S. President Joe Biden that any military action would focus on Iranian military installations. In response, the U.S. has pledged to provide Israel with the advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) air defense system to bolster its protection against potential counterstrikes.
Lebanon’s PM Urges Israel’s Commitment to Ceasefire
Meanwhile, Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati emphasized the need for a genuine ceasefire commitment from Israel. In discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Mikati highlighted Lebanon’s concerns over previous ceasefire initiatives.
“What is required first is a real commitment from Israel to a ceasefire because the previous experience regarding the American-French call, supported by the Arab and international community, affected everyone’s credibility,” Mikati remarked, stressing the importance of credible, sustained diplomatic efforts.
As the situation unfolds, the region watches closely, hoping diplomacy may prevent the escalation of military hostilities.
Key Points:
- Iran’s Military on High Alert: Iran has placed its armed forces on alert, preparing for potential conflict with Israel while actively seeking to avoid escalation.
- Response Conditions Set by Iran: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has stated Iran will retaliate if Israel targets key infrastructure, including oil facilities, nuclear sites, or high-ranking officials.
- U.S.-Israel Cooperation: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly assured President Biden that any Israeli strikes would target Iranian military facilities; in return, the U.S. has committed to providing Israel with THAAD air defense systems.
- Lebanon’s Call for Ceasefire: Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati urged Israel to commit to a genuine ceasefire, noting past efforts lacked credibility.
- Diplomatic Tensions Rise: As regional tensions escalate, stakeholders emphasize diplomacy to prevent further conflict.
