Iran’s supreme leader has lauded the country’s recent missile strike on Israel, declaring readiness to repeat such action if necessary, as reported by state TV. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made this statement in his first Friday prayers appearance in about five years, hailing the missile strike as a commendable achievement by Iran’s armed forces.
The missile attack on Israel, which took place on Tuesday with Iran launching at least 180 missiles, marked a concerning escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran and its allies, heightening the risk of a broader regional warfare in the Middle East. While Israel reported intercepting many of the missiles with assistance from U.S. destroyers, Iran claimed most of its missiles successfully hit their intended targets, with no immediate reports of casualties.
During his 40-minute speech at the Mosalla mosque in Tehran, Khamenei expressed support for the Palestinian people, citing a previous attack led by Hamas on southern Israel in October 2023 as legitimate. He asserted that Tuesday’s missile barrage was in accordance with international law, Iran’s law, and Islamic beliefs. The Supreme Leader urged nations across the region to stand ready to combat the enemy, extending praise to those who have sacrificed their lives in doing so.
Addressing Arab nations, Khamenei emphasised the importance of unwavering determination in the face of adversity. His remarks were also directed towards the memory of late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad in 2020.
In a parallel development, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Beirut, Lebanon, to engage with officials on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed Iran’s provision of aid to Lebanon, comprising 10 tons of food and medicine to support the country amid the escalating tensions.
Iran’s unwavering stance following the missile attack on Israel underscores the volatile situation in the region, with tensions continuing to simmer between Iran and its adversaries. The Supreme Leader’s words signal a firm commitment to defending Iran’s interests and supporting its allies in the face of external threats.