Tensions Rise Between Iran and Israel Amid U.S. Election Countdown
The already tense situation in West Asia appears to be escalating as Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly instructed military forces to be prepared for an attack on Israel. The New York Times, citing three Iranian officials, reported that Khamenei issued this directive following a series of attacks and counterattacks between Israel and Iran. Last week, Israel reportedly targeted Iranian military installations in response to a missile strike from Iran, which led Khamenei to declare that inaction would signal surrender to Israel.
Despite international appeals from the U.S. and other nations for restraint, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed hope that the latest exchange would mark the end of hostilities. However, Iranian sources indicate that an attack on Israel may follow the upcoming U.S. presidential election on November 5. Mohammad Golpayghani, a close aide of Khamenei, warned that Israel would regret its recent actions, calling them deliberate provocations against Iran. Golpayghani noted that any retaliation would be severe, aiming to ensure Israel “repents.”
Following Israel’s attacks, Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps leader Hossein Salami suggested that Israel had misjudged the situation, asserting that the balance of power would not shift in Israel’s favor. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s priority to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities and hinted at potential direct intervention in Iran.
As tensions build, the outcome of the U.S. election could play a significant role in shaping future responses and policies regarding the conflict between Iran and Israel.
