Escalating Tensions: Iran's Khamenei Backs Rocket Strikes on Israel as Conflict Intensifies
In a rare public address, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expressed strong support for the recent rocket attacks on Israel, deeming them 'completely legal and legitimate.' This speech, delivered during a Friday sermon in Tehran, marked a significant moment amid increased hostilities between Israel and Iranian-backed groups in the region. Khamenei underscored Iran's commitment to continue its fight against Israel, promising that the resistance within the region would persist despite the assassination of prominent leaders such as Hassan Nasrallah, the recently slain leader of Hezbollah.
The sermon coincided with a memorial service for Nasrallah, attended by Khamenei alongside Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian and other prominent political figures. This gathering underscored the alliance between Iran and Hezbollah, amplifying tensions following a week of aggressive clashes.
Just as Khamenei spoke, Israel intensified its military actions, executing airstrikes in Lebanon's Dahieh suburb, known to be a Hezbollah stronghold. Reports indicated these operations were directed at Hashem Safieddine, a cousin and potential successor to Nasrallah, who was believed to have been present in a targeted bunker. While initial reports on Safieddine's condition were unclear, the strikes resulted in numerous casualties among Hezbollah's ranks.
The Israeli military claimed to have killed approximately 250 Hezbollah members since initiating a limited ground offensive in southern Lebanon. According to army officials, recent days have been especially deadly, with reports indicating around 100 Hezbollah fighters lost their lives between Thursday and Friday alone.
As fighting escalated, the humanitarian situation grew dire, prompting several governments, including the US and Germany, to evacuate their citizens from Lebanon. The US State Department announced the evacuation of about 350 Americans and their relatives, while Germany removed over 200 nationals. Amid the chaos, the Lebanese Ministry of Health reported more than 37 deaths in recent airstrikes, with the international community eyes focused on the increasing violence.
In parallel to operations in Lebanon, Israel has carried out airstrikes in the occupied West Bank, marking a significant uptick in violence. A recent attack in Tulkarem resulted in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, the deadliest incident in the region since the onset of hostilities between Hamas and Israel nearly a year ago. Israeli officials claimed the airstrike targeted a local Hamas leader, suggesting a continuous targeting of groups affiliated with resistance against Israel.
The situation remains precarious as regional allies and foe alike navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, reshuffling dynamics between Iran, Hezbollah, and Israel as military actions unfold, reflecting an entrenchment in a cycle of violence that continues to evolve.
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