Israel has warned it would next hit civilian targets in Tehran in response to Iran’s missile attacks, snubbing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as an “arrogant dictator”, as the two countries accused each other of hitting civilian targets in the latest flare-up in the Middle East.
“The arrogant dictator from Tehran has become a cowardly murderer who fires targeted shots at the civilian home front in Israel to deter the IDF from continuing the attack that is collapsing its capabilities. The residents of Tehran will pay the price, and soon,” said Defence Minister Israel Katz.
Khamenei had earlier vowed that Iran would deal heavy blows to the “evil Zionist enemy”, which refers to Israel.
Threats from both sides risk worsening the years-long Middle East crisis that follows decades of shadow wars and covert operations. The latest attacks have not only raised humanitarian concerns but also trade implications, with crude prices seeing a surge.
Iran last night launched missile strikes on different Israeli cities, described as “heavy blows to Zionists” by Khamenei. “Life will definitely become bitter for the Zionists,” he warned, sharing a video that showed missiles raining down on Israel.
Visuals from Israel capital Tel Aviv showed buildings destroyed after a warning from the Israeli forces for the civilians to take shelter. Loud explosions were also reported from Jerusalem, with the night sky lit up by Iranian projectiles.