TEHRAN:  Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a strong warning following the Israeli airstrikes, declaring that Israel will face severe punishment for its actions.

In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei said: “This morning, the Zionist regime committed a grave crime on our soil with its blood-stained and evil hands. By targeting residential areas, the enemy has further exposed its vicious nature.”

He confirmed that several top commanders and scientists were martyred in the strikes, and that Israel had hit three Iranian military sites.

Khamenei vowed a firm response, saying: “Israel must prepare to face consequences. The Iranian armed forces will not let this aggression go unanswered.”

The statement underscores the heightened risk of escalation, as Iran prepares for a potential military response.

On the other hand, Iranian military has issued a formal response to the recent Israeli airstrikes, warning that Israel will pay a heavy price for its actions.

In a strongly worded statement, Iranian Armed Forces spokesperson Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi declared:

“The enemy has made a grave mistake by attacking Iran. We will deliver a forceful response. Israel and the United States will both be held accountable.”

The statement accused Israel of launching the attacks with U.S. support, saying both countries should now brace for consequences.

Meanwhile, Ebrahim Rezaei, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, warned of a decisive retaliation, stating:

“Israel’s actions will be met with a powerful and calculated response. They will not go unanswered.”

The developments signal a sharp escalation in tensions, with Iranian leadership united in promising retaliatory action.