A high-ranking Israeli security official has called for strong actions against Iran’s leaders, particularly Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, after a recent missile attack on Israel. The official expressed to The Jerusalem Post that Israel needs to be ready to strike key government locations in Iran and possibly remove leaders like Khamenei from power.
Recent Missile Attack
On Tuesday night, Iran launched a significant assault, firing 180 ballistic missiles toward Israel. This triggered rocket alarms throughout the country, sending people rushing to find safety. While many missiles were intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, some caused serious damage, hitting buildings in Tel Aviv and a school in Gedera.
Targeting Iran’s Leadership
The security official stressed that Israel’s response must be quick and calculated. Khamenei is believed to be behind the recent attacks and is reportedly trying to make the region less stable by pursuing nuclear weapons. The official warned, “Khamenei wants a conventional attack and aims to develop nuclear capabilities. Israel needs to destroy Iran’s nuclear sites now.”
Key Objectives for Israel
The official outlined three main goals for Israel’s retaliation:
- Weaken the Iranian Regime: The first aim is to weaken Iran’s government itself, not just its military sites. The official stated, “We need to hit the core of the regime,” suggesting that removing leaders like Khamenei would send a powerful message to Iran and its allies.
- Economic Targets: The second goal is to target Iran’s economy, which includes its oil, gas, communications, and banking sectors. The official stated, “After neutralizing their nuclear capabilities, we must go after Iran’s economy—this will show that Iran cannot act without consequences.”
- Military Infrastructure: Lastly, the official proposed crippling Iran’s military power. This includes shooting down some of Iran’s planes and destroying facilities that produce missiles.
Iran’s Reaction
The Revolutionary Guards in Iran quickly took responsibility for the missile attack, saying it was revenge for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike. They warned that if Israel retaliates, it would suffer a “decisive blow.”
Tensions in the Region
This missile strike is the second clash between Israel and Iran this year, but the recent one was much larger. The repercussions of the attack spread across the region, with countries like Jordan and Iraq closing their airspace, and Ben-Gurion Airport temporarily halting flights. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan noted that the U.S. is monitoring the situation closely, warning that more Iranian aggression would have “severe consequences.”
Israel’s Preparedness
Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), assured citizens that Israel is ready for any possible scenario. “We are prepared, both offensively and defensively, to handle any attacks from Iran,” he said, emphasizing the success of their air defenses in intercepting many incoming missiles.
Additionally, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced that 13,000 emergency standby teams would be mobilized to help manage the ongoing crisis.
The situation between Israel and Iran is increasingly tense, with serious implications for regional stability. As Israel prepares for potential retaliation, the world watches closely, aware that the next steps could significantly impact the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape.
