By Sabiu Abdullahi
Iran’s armed forces have issued a strong warning to Israel over what they described as a possible attack on Tehran’s diplomatic mission in Lebanon.
A military spokesperson said on Wednesday that Iran would respond by targeting Israeli embassies across the globe if such an action takes place.
Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesperson for the Iranian armed forces, spoke during a live television broadcast. He said, “if Israel commits such a crime, it will force us to make all Israeli embassies around the world our legitimate target.”
His remarks followed a statement by the Israeli military a day earlier. On Tuesday, Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, said it “warns representatives of the Iranian regime who are still in Lebanon to leave immediately before being targeted”, and gave them 24 hours to depart.
The exchange comes amid rising hostilities between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Iran has faced joint US-Israeli airstrikes since February 28. Reports indicate that more than 40 senior Iranian government officials have been killed in the bombardment. Among those reported dead is Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
The strikes have also affected civilians. More than 1,000 non-combatants have lost their lives, according to reports. The attacks prompted Iran to launch retaliatory measures.
Washington has accused the government led by Khamenei of suppressing its citizens and pursuing nuclear weapons development. Tehran has denied the claims and rejected the allegations.
The situation has continued to heighten tensions across the region, with both sides exchanging threats as the conflict deepens.
