Iran Vows ‘Harsh’ Response to Israeli Attack as Tensions Escalate in Middle East

Iran has issued a stern warning of a ‘harsh and regretful response’ to the recent Israeli attack on its military facilities, marking the latest escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. The Israeli strikes, carried out on Saturday, targeted Iranian military sites in retaliation for Iran’s firing of a barrage of missiles against Israel earlier in the week.

The Iranian response was vowed by Mohammad Mohammadi Golpayegani, a senior aide to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who described the Israeli action as a “desperate move” and promised a severe retaliation. This comes amid reports that Iranian forces are preparing to launch a major retaliatory strike from Iraqi territory, possibly using drones and ballistic missiles, according to Israeli intelligence.

The situation has been further complicated by attacks in other regions. In northern Israel, a Hezbollah rocket attack on the town of Metula resulted in the deaths of seven people, including an Israeli farmer and four foreign farm workers. This is one of the deadliest such attacks since Israel’s incursion into Lebanon earlier this month.

Israel has also ordered evacuations around the Lebanese city of Baalbek for the second consecutive day, following Israeli strikes that killed at least 19 people in the area. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported the casualties, which occurred during strikes on the village of Douris and the surroundings of Baalbek.

US officials are actively involved in efforts to de-escalate the conflict, with envoys discussing a potential ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza with their Israeli counterparts. The Prime Minister of Lebanon has expressed hope for a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to be established within the next few hours or days.

The Israeli military remains on high alert, prepared to address any potential actions from Iran, especially in light of indications that Iran might retaliate before the upcoming US presidential elections on November 5.