Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi issued a stern warning to Israel on Tuesday, stating that any attack on Iranian infrastructure would provoke a powerful retaliation. This statement follows recent tensions, including a missile attack by Iran on Israel last week, which prompted promises of retaliation from the Israeli government.
Araqchi, in a televised address, emphasised that the Islamic Republic would respond decisively if provoked. “We recommend the Zionist regime (Israel) not to test the resolution of the Islamic Republic. If any attack against our country takes place, our response will be more powerful,” he declared.
The backdrop to Araqchi’s remarks includes escalating fears in Washington regarding potential Israeli military actions against Iran’s nuclear facilities. US officials are particularly concerned that Israel might initiate strikes aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, a move that could trigger a significant regional conflict.
Araqchi made it clear that Iran’s capabilities extend to various targets within Israel. “Any attack on Iran’s infrastructure will be met with a stronger retaliation, and our enemies know what kind of targets inside the Zionist regime are in our reach,” he asserted, further heightening the stakes in this ongoing confrontation.
In a related development, Iran’s oil minister visited Kharg Island, the site of the country’s main oil export terminal, to hold discussions with naval commanders. This meeting, reported by the oil ministry’s news website Shana, comes amid heightened concerns that Israel could target Iran’s energy facilities as part of a broader military strategy.
The geopolitical tension continues to attract international attention, with US President Joe Biden stating last Friday that he believed Israel had not yet finalised its response strategy. The situation remains fluid, with both nations on high alert as military rhetoric escalates.
As the regional landscape becomes increasingly volatile, diplomatic efforts may be crucial in averting a wider conflict. Iran’s threats and Israel’s military posture suggest that both sides are preparing for potential escalation, raising concerns for stability in the Middle East.