Iran threatens ‘vast destruction’ as Netanyahu vows payback for missile attack
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a stern warning to Israel on Wednesday, vowing “crushing attacks” if it retaliates for a missile strike launched by Tehran, which escalated tensions in the already volatile region.
The missile barrage, which targeted Israeli military bases, prompted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to promise swift retribution, even as Iran declared its missile attack concluded unless further provoked.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Wednesday ordered more evacuations in parts of Lebanon, including capital Beirut, as it continues to strike suspected Hezbollah targets and pushes ahead with its ground incursion.
Iran launched a barrage of missiles on Tuesday, claiming to have targeted three military bases near Tel Aviv as well as key air and installations. According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, “90 per cent” of the missiles “hit their targets”, though no injuries have been reported by Israeli authorities.
Tehran linked the missile strike to an “attack on the sovereignty” of Iran, referencing the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July. The Iranian government described its military actions as defensive, undertaken “after a period of restraint.”
Iran warned of “vast destruction” should Israel retaliate. The Iranian armed forces also cautioned other nations against intervening in the conflict, stating their “interests in the region will also face a powerful attack.”
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said a “decisive response” had been made to what he called Israeli “aggression,” cautioning Netanyahu that “Iran is not a warmonger, but it firmly opposes any threats. This is merely a glimpse of our strength. Do not provoke Iran”.
Following the Iranian missile attacks, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a firm response, saying, “Iran made a big mistake tonight and will pay for it. Whoever attacks us, we attack them.”
The United States, which had earlier warned of an imminent Iranian ballistic missile attack, described the assault as “defeated and ineffective.” White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan also warned Tehran of serious repercussions.
Israel’s security cabinet met late Tuesday to discuss the escalating situation. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, “This attack will have consequences. We have plans, and we will operate at the place and time we decide.”
Iran fired more than 180 ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday. Explosions were heard in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the Jordan River valley. Israeli military published video of a school in the central city of Gadera that was heavily damaged by an Iranian missile.
The IDF said its missile defence systems carried out “a large number of interceptions,” and the US said it intercepted some of the missiles to help defend Israel. No injuries were reported in Israel, but a Palestinian was killed in the occupied West Bank, authorities said.
Tuesday’s attack came after Iran vowed to retaliate following Israeli strikes that killed the top leadership of its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon, including the group’s leader Hassan Nasrallah.