Iran's leadership is deliberating its response to recent Israeli airstrikes, with President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasizing that while Tehran does not seek war, it will defend its national interests. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, Pezeshkian stated, "We will give an appropriate response to the aggression of the Zionist regime," underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
In light of the airstrikes, which reportedly targeted Iranian defense capabilities, Iran has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Monday. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attacks as a significant threat to international peace and security, asserting Iran's right to respond in accordance with international law.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also weighed in, urging Iranian authorities to demonstrate the country's strength to Israel while refraining from immediate military retaliation. Khamenei noted that the attack should neither be minimized nor exaggerated, suggesting a careful approach as Iran considers its options.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the air force successfully targeted Iranian missile production capabilities, describing the operation as precise and impactful. According to sources cited by the New York Times, the strikes damaged critical air defense systems and oil facilities, raising concerns about further escalation.
Despite the severity of the Israeli attacks, Iranian officials, including Pezeshkian, have been cautious in their rhetoric, mourning the loss of four Iranian soldiers but avoiding direct threats of retaliation. Former Foreign Minister Javad Zarif called for the West to recognize Iran's commitment to peace while condemning Israel's actions.
Iran's mission to the UN has accused the U.S. of complicity in the attacks, as Israeli planes reportedly operated from Iraqi airspace. This assertion reflects Iran's broader narrative that it perceives the U.S. as a partner in Israel's military endeavors across the region.
As Iran navigates its response, the country must balance the potential diplomatic fallout from a military escalation against its improving relations with Arab nations, its struggling economy, and the risks associated with further Israeli attacks.
Public sentiment within Iran regarding its foreign policy is delicate, with recent polling indicating that support for costly interventions is waning. As the situation unfolds, both domestic and international reactions will likely play a critical role in shaping Iran's next steps.
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