On October 31, 2024, Iranian officials announced a forthcoming response to recent Israeli airstrikes targeting military sites in Iran. The strikes occurred on October 26, affecting locations in three Iranian cities. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the country's response would be in self-defense.
Mohammad Mohammadi Golpayegani, an advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, characterized the Israeli actions as desperate and warned that Iran's retaliation would be severe, ensuring that Israel would regret its attack.
In response to the escalating tensions, U.S. officials reiterated their warning to Iran against retaliating, emphasizing that any such action would prompt American support for Israel. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated, “Iran should not respond to Israel’s actions. If it does, we will support Israel in its defense.”
The Israeli military's operations were reportedly aimed at missile manufacturing facilities and Iranian air capabilities, following a recent missile attack from Iran on Tel Aviv. Satellite images confirmed damage at the Shahroud base, with Iranian officials reporting strikes in Ilam, Khuzestan, and Tehran.
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs threatened a decisive response, asserting that it would utilize all available means to retaliate against Israel. Khamenei urged Iranian authorities to demonstrate the nation's strength and resolve, warning that Israel miscalculates Iran’s capabilities.
In a counter-response, Israeli military leaders indicated readiness to escalate their operations if Iran continues its aggressive posture. Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, stated that Israel would respond forcefully to any further missile attacks from Iran.