Iran Vows ‘Crushing Response’ to Israel Following Recent Airstrikes

Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated significantly following recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory. On October 26, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting missile manufacturing sites and aerial defenses in the cities of Karaj, Mashhad, and Tehran. The attack resulted in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers and limited damage to some sites, according to Iranian reports.

In response, Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and IRGC commander Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami, have vowed a “crushing response” to the Israeli strikes. Khamenei warned that both Israel and the United States would receive a severe retaliation for their actions against Iran.

Iran is reportedly planning a complex operation that could include the use of drones and missiles with heavier payloads than those previously used. The attack may also involve the conventional Iranian military, known as the Artesh, for the first time, in addition to the IRGC. There are indications that Iraq might be used as a launch site for these attacks to avoid direct retaliation on Iranian territory.

The timing of the Iranian response remains uncertain, but it is speculated to occur after the US elections on November 5, to avoid influencing the election results, and before the inauguration of the new US president in January. Israeli and US intelligence are closely monitoring Iranian movements to anticipate the nature and timing of the response.

In anticipation of this potential attack, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have heightened their state of alert and readiness. This includes intensified intelligence gathering and daily situational assessments across all branches of the IDF. The Israeli air force is also on high alert, focusing on its control and air defense systems.

Additionally, an Israeli commander at the Nevatim Air Base has been placed under security following a failed assassination attempt linked to an Iran-backed cell. This highlights the increased threat level against senior Israeli figures both domestically and abroad).