Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued a strong warning to Israel and the United States following an alleged Israeli attack on an Iranian nuclear facility.
In a televised speech on Wednesday, Khamenei stated that Iran will “definitely” respond to the attack, which he called a “crime” and “nuclear terrorism.” He also accused Israel of being behind the attack and claimed that the U.S. was complicit in the act.
The attack, which took place on Sunday, targeted Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility and caused significant damage to its centrifuge production plant. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack, but multiple reports suggest that it was carried out by the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad.
Khamenei’s remarks come as tensions between Iran and Israel have been escalating in recent months. The two countries have long been at odds over Iran’s nuclear program, which Israel sees as a threat to its security. Iran, on the other hand, maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
The Supreme Leader’s warning also comes amid ongoing negotiations between Iran and the U.S. to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, which former President Donald Trump withdrew from in 2018. The deal, which aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief, has been a point of contention between the two countries.
Khamenei’s strong words towards Israel and the U.S. are not uncommon, as he has a history of making fiery speeches against the two countries. However, his latest remarks have raised concerns about a potential escalation of tensions in the region.
In response to Khamenei’s threats, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will continue to defend itself against any threats. He also warned Iran against any further provocations, stating that Israel will not hesitate to take action to protect its security.
The U.S. has yet to officially respond to Khamenei’s speech, but State Department spokesperson Ned Price stated that the U.S. is “not involved in any manner” in the attack on the Natanz facility.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Iran, Israel, and the U.S. will navigate the escalating tensions in the region.
