Tensions escalated sharply in the Middle East as Iran’s Armed Forces spokesperson, Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, warned of severe retaliation against Israel and the United States following recent Israeli strikes. Speaking to Iran’s state-run news agency IRNA, Shekarchi declared that Tehran will respond decisively, despite U.S. claims of non-involvement.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran will definitely retaliate, and the enemy will pay a heavy price,” said Shekarchi. “Israel and the US will pay dearly and will be dealt a harsh blow.”
He accused Israel of targeting residential areas in the latest strikes, adding that Iranian forces are on full alert and prepared for immediate action.
The situation has led to heightened security measures across the region. On Wednesday, prior to the strikes, the United States ordered the evacuation of many non-essential personnel and their families from several locations in the Middle East. While U.S. officials did not specify the exact reason for the withdrawal, a defense source confirmed that the U.S. Central Command was closely monitoring the “developing tension in the Middle East.”
According to two sources familiar with the matter, President Donald Trump and senior White House officials were aware in advance of the Israeli plans to strike Iranian targets on Thursday night. Following the attack, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States had no role in the operation and did not provide any support.
As the region braces for possible retaliation, the world watches anxiously for what could be the next flashpoint in a long-simmering conflict.
