Amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning on Thursday, emphasizing his country’s readiness to defend itself against potential attacks. Netanyahu stated that while Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, it is also preparing for possible threats from other regions.
The escalation in tensions follows reports suggesting that Iran is preparing to retaliate against Israel for the recent killing of senior Iranian commanders. Netanyahu affirmed his government’s commitment to meeting all security needs, whether defensive or offensive, to safeguard the State of Israel.
Netanyahu’s remarks came after an April 1 airstrike targeted the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus, resulting in the death of Iran’s senior general and several other officers. Although Israel claimed responsibility for the attack, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed that Israel “must be punished.”
Meanwhile, Israeli troops and warplanes have initiated an operation in central Gaza aimed at dismantling the infrastructure of armed Palestinian groups. While most Israeli troops have withdrawn from Gaza to prepare for potential conflict in the southern city of Rafah, where over 1.4 million Palestinians reside, fighting continues in various parts of the enclave.
Residents in Gaza expressed concerns over the escalation of violence, with reports of incessant explosions and airstrikes. Raouf Abed, a 20-year-old resident from Deir Al-Balah, described the situation as resembling the start of a new war, with explosions echoing from different directions.
Abed lamented the impact of the violence on civilians, emphasizing that each time they hope for a ceasefire, Israel intensifies its aggression. He suggested that Israel’s actions may be aimed at pressuring Hamas by targeting innocent civilians.
The developments highlight the fragile security situation in the region, with both Israel and Iran engaging in military posturing amid heightened tensions. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community closely monitors the situation, hoping for a de-escalation of hostilities and a return to stability in the region.
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