Tehran: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a stern warning to Israel on Wednesday, cautioning against any retaliation for Tehran’s recent missile strikes, which targeted Israeli military bases. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised swift retribution, escalating tensions in the region.
The missile barrage, which Iran claims struck three Israeli military bases near Tel Aviv, was described by Tehran as a “decisive response” to Israel’s actions in the region. The Revolutionary Guards reported that “90 percent” of the missiles hit their intended targets. No injuries have been confirmed by Israeli authorities, but a Palestinian was reported killed in the occupied West Bank amid the escalation.
Netanyahu warned that Iran “made a big mistake tonight and will pay for it,” and emphasised that Israel would respond accordingly. Meanwhile, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that “Iran is not a warmonger, but it firmly opposes any threats,” cautioning against further provocation.
The United States, which had earlier warned of an imminent Iranian ballistic missile attack, described the assault as “defeated and ineffective.” White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan also issued a statement, warning Tehran of severe consequences if the situation worsens.
The attack follows Israel’s recent strikes that killed the top leadership of Hezbollah in Lebanon, including the group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, leading Iran to vow retaliation. As tensions continue to rise, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have ordered more evacuations in parts of Lebanon, including Beirut, and are reportedly targeting Hezbollah positions.
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Rome AP: In his strongest words yet, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday denounced the “delusion of omnipotence” that is fueling the US-Israel war in Iran and demanded political leaders stop and negotiate peace.
Leo presided over an evening prayer service in St. Peter's Basilica on the same day the United States and Iran began face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan and as a fragile ceasefire held.
History's first US-born pope didn't mention the United States or President Donald Trump in his prayer, which was planned before the talks were announced. But Leo's tone and message appeared directed at Trump and US officials, who have boasted of US military superiority and justified the war in religious terms.
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money!” Leo demanded. “Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!”
