Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel’s airstrike on Iranian military targets over the weekend was “precise and powerful,” achieving all strategic objectives, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned that Tehran would respond in a manner best suited to defend its interests.
Netanyahu, addressing the public during a memorial event, stated, “The air force attacked Iran and hit Iran’s defense capabilities and missile production.” He attributed the strike to Iran’s earlier October 1 missile barrage on Israel, and emphasized that Israel’s response targeted Iranian drone and ballistic missile facilities, as well as air defense batteries.
Saturday’s strike followed a prolonged campaign to weaken what Netanyahu described as “the arms of the Iranian octopus,” referring to Tehran’s support for regional militias like Hezbollah and Hamas. Addressing Iranians, Netanyahu clarified that Israel’s conflict was with the regime, not the people.
Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also emphasized that the airstrike served as a message to those threatening Israel, saying, “Israel’s long arm will reach anyone who tries to harm us.”
Khamenei responded firmly to the strikes, warning Israeli leadership not to underestimate Iran’s capability to respond. “Israel made a mistake [with its attack]. To exaggerate about this is a mistake. But dismissing it is also a mistake,” Khamenei said, urging that the “incorrect assessment by the Zionist regime” be corrected. He noted that Iran’s response would be carefully considered by senior officials.
Iranian reports confirmed that military sites around Tehran and other provinces were struck, with losses including four Iranian soldiers and limited infrastructure damage, according to Iranian statements. Satellite images indicated significant damage to defense facilities, including sites used for missile production, making recovery costly and complex.
In the aftermath, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf promised a “decisive and appropriate” response, citing Iran’s right to self-defense under international law. Ghalibaf also cautioned the United States, warning them to pursue diplomatic restraint to avoid further escalation, calling the strikes “a sign of desperation” from Israel.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials stated that the operation would allow for “wider freedom of aerial action in Iran,” noting that they maintain a list of targets for future strikes if deemed necessary. The U.S. reportedly supported Israel’s right to respond but encouraged restraint from targeting nuclear or oil facilities, confirming that Washington had prior notice of the operation but did not directly participate.
The escalating tension marks a critical moment in the already volatile relations between Israel and Iran, with regional and global implications if the conflict continues.