Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the current attack against Iran is paused but cautioned that Israel would retaliate strongly if Iran recommences hostilities. Netanyahu, in his first televised address over 20 hours after Iran’s missile launch at Israel, emphasized that the situation is calm as Iran has ceased its attacks. However, he affirmed that Israel stands ready to respond with force if provoked again.
Netanyahu disclosed that he had instructed the military to target military and economic sites in Iran on Monday. In response to Netanyahu’s directives, Israel’s Home Front Command announced the easing of most civil defense restrictions nationwide on Tuesday morning. While some restrictions will persist in northern communities near the Lebanese border, the majority of the country will resume normal activities.
Following the cessation of Iranian armed forces’ operations against Israel, as declared by Iran’s main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the semi-official Fars news agency reported a warning against Israeli aggression. The headquarters cautioned that any further hostile actions by Israel, including in southern Lebanon, would trigger a more severe and forceful response.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated the nation’s commitment to national security and peace. Emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and defense, Pezeshkian affirmed Iran’s resolve to defend its rights while remaining open to negotiations. He expressed confidence that Iran would overcome the current challenges through unity and rationality.
