TEHRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has ordered direct strikes on Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This decision was reportedly made during an urgent meeting of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, as reported by international media sources.
Tehran, alongside Hamas, has accused Israel of orchestrating the assassination. This act is part of a broader pattern, with Tel Aviv known for conducting targeted operations abroad against perceived threats, including Iranian nuclear scientists and military figures.
Over the past ten months of conflict in Gaza, Iran has steadfastly supported Gaza while striving to avoid a full-scale confrontation. However, the assassination has provoked Iran to launch its most significant attack on Israel in decades. In retaliation for an Israeli strike on its embassy in Damascus that killed several Iranian military commanders, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones.
Potential Targets and Strategies
While specifics of Tehran’s planned attack remain uncertain, Iranian army officials are contemplating a strategy that involves using drones and missiles to target military sites near Tel Aviv and Haifa, carefully avoiding civilian areas to mitigate collateral damage.
Global Repercussions and Internal Reactions
Haniyeh’s assassination has sent shockwaves across the globe, raising concerns about Iran’s ability to prevent Israeli operations on its territory. Domestically, the incident has sparked outrage among government supporters, who are demanding internal reforms to enhance the security of senior officials. Alireza Katebi Jahromi, a journalist who supports the government, emphasized the need to prioritize the safety of the supreme leader before pursuing any acts of revenge.
Security Concerns
The assassination has also intensified discussions about the effectiveness of Iran’s security apparatus. Many believe that substantial reforms are necessary to protect high-ranking officials and prevent future incidents of this nature.
As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, bracing for potential repercussions that could further destabilize the region.