Iran Vows Decisive Retaliation After Israeli Strikes Kill Civilians and Military Officials
Iran has vowed a decisive military response after Israeli strikes killed IRGC chief Hossein Salami and civilians on June 13. A senior Iranian commander warned both Israel and the U.S. would "pay a heavy price," despite Washington denying involvement. Tensions in the region remain high.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iran has vowed a strong and decisive military response following Israeli airstrikes that targeted multiple locations across the country early Friday, killing both civilians and high-ranking military officials, including IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami, according to Iranian and Reuters reports.
Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a senior spokesperson for Iran’s armed forces, condemned the attack and warned that “retaliation will be decisive.”
“The armed forces are fully prepared and will definitely respond forcefully to these actions,” Shekarchi said, as quoted by Mehr News Agency (MNA). “The Zionist regime and the United States will pay a very heavy price.”
The airstrikes, described by Israeli authorities as part of Operation Rising Lion, hit dozens of military and nuclear sites, including the Natanz uranium enrichment facility and the IRGC headquarters in Tehran. Iran’s state media reported the death of several civilians in residential areas as well.
Israel claimed the strikes were a preemptive measure to thwart Iran’s nuclear capabilities and eliminate top military threats. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation would continue for “as many days as it takes to remove the threat.”
While the United States has reaffirmed its non-involvement in the Israeli operation, Iranian officials have directly linked Washington to the attack.
"Retaliation will be decisive, and the Zionist regime and the United States will pay a very heavy price," Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi was quoted as saying by Mehr News Agency.
In a statement issued Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated: “We are not involved in strikes against Iran, and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” according to Reuters.
However, General Shekarchi’s remarks suggest Iran considers both Israel and the U.S. accountable for the escalation. “Enemies should expect strong responses from the armed forces,” he warned.
As regional tensions rise, the situation remains fluid, with fears of further escalation prompting international calls for restraint.
Kurdistan24 continues to follow this developing story, citing verified reports.
