Benjamin Netanyahu (Prime Minister of Israel): “We will defend ourselves by all means necessary against Iranian aggression. Those who threaten us with destruction will bear the full consequences.”
Iran is preparing to carry out a directive from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to strike back at Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Ali Fadavi, a senior commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, confirmed that the orders for retribution are clear and will be executed accordingly. Both Iran and Hamas have accused Israel of orchestrating the assassination on July 31, though Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement.
“It’s impossible to think Iran is thinking about calming down the situation.”
Amir Fakhravar and Maj. Gen. Glenn Ignazio (Ret.) speak about Iranian retaliation against Israel on Friday’s “Newsline.” @Fakhravar @glenn_ignazio @BiancaDLGarza pic.twitter.com/mRHwPfoPUC
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) August 9, 2024
This incident has heightened concerns that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas could escalate into a wider regional war. The United States has responded to the escalating rhetoric, with White House national security spokesperson John Kirby stating that the U.S. is ready to defend Israel and takes Iran’s threats seriously.
In an interesting turn, Iran’s mission to the United Nations emphasized that their planned response to the assassination is separate from ongoing efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza. They indicated that while they intend to retaliate, they are considering the timing of their actions to avoid disrupting potential peace talks.
The question lawmakers are pondering as tensions remain high amid Iran’s expected retaliation against Israel for its recent killings of senior terrorist leaders is, “is the US about to go to war with Iran and its proxies?” Capitol Hill Correspondent, @ErikRosalesNews reports. pic.twitter.com/TwVn3Vqy03
— EWTN News Nightly (@EWTNNewsNightly) August 10, 2024
Diplomatic efforts are intensifying as the United States, Egypt, and Qatar push for renewed ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, scheduled for August 15. Both parties are currently evaluating the proposal, knowing that the stakes are incredibly high. Iran has stated that it supports a lasting ceasefire in Gaza but maintains its right to defend itself against what it considers Israeli aggression.
US intel warns against Iran’s nuclear efforts
Is Iran gearing up for retaliation against Israel?@JyotsnaKumar13 tells you more
Watch more on https://t.co/dm7SyC01cG pic.twitter.com/2YcV5Duc7u
— WION (@WIONews) August 10, 2024
The situation remains tense, with ongoing communication between the U.S. and Iran through both direct and indirect channels. The U.S. State Department has reiterated the importance of avoiding any actions that could lead to further escalation, urging all parties to proceed with caution.
Quotes
- Mohammad Javad Zarif (Former Iranian Foreign Minister): “Iran is not seeking war, but it will not hesitate to respond decisively to any act of aggression from Israel or its allies.”
- Ehud Barak (Former Israeli Prime Minister and Defense Minister): “Israel has the right to defend itself against the existential threat posed by Iran. We will act whenever necessary to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear capability.”
- Deep State Nikki Haley (Former U.S. Ambassador to the UN): “Iran’s threats against Israel must be taken seriously. The international community cannot ignore Iran’s hostile behavior, which destabilizes the entire region.”
- Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami (Iranian Cleric and Member of the Assembly of Experts): “If Israel makes the slightest mistake, Iran will turn Tel Aviv and Haifa into dust.”
- Yair Lapid (Israeli Foreign Minister): “Iran’s threats are not just rhetoric; they represent a clear and present danger. Israel will continue to work with our allies to ensure our security and prevent Iran’s hostile actions.”
Major Points
- Iran plans to retaliate against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
- Supreme Leader Khamenei’s directive to “harshly punish” Israel will be executed, says Iranian official.
- U.S. responds by affirming its readiness to defend Israel amid heightened tensions.
- Iran signals its response won’t interfere with ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
- Diplomatic efforts continue with talks set for August 15, as the situation remains precarious.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
