Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian recently addressed the recent attacks between Israel and Iran, denying that Israel was behind the recent attack on his country. He described the weapons used in the attack as “toys,” indicating that Iran was not planning to respond unless a significant attack was launched by Israel. However, he warned that if Israel did attack, Iran’s response would be swift and severe.
The recent cycle of violence between Israel and Iran began in early April with Israel bombing an Iranian consular building in Damascus, resulting in casualties for Iran. Iran responded 12 days later with a military attack on Israel involving missiles and drones, though the attack caused no significant damage as most were intercepted by allied forces. Amirabdollahian stated that the attack was meant to be a warning to Israel, with a focus on military targets and civilians being spared.
Although there has been a long-standing conflict between Iran and Israel with Iran supporting proxy forces in countries like Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza, the recent aerial barrage was the first overt military attack by Iran on Israel. The Biden administration called for restraint to prevent a full-blown war between the two adversaries. Israel retaliated by striking a military airfield near Isfahan, causing no damage to nuclear facilities in the area. Both sides seem to be looking to ease tensions following the recent attacks, according to experts.
The Biden administration has accused Iran of being complicit in the recent attack on Israel by Hamas, citing Iran’s support for the militant group. Amirabdollahian denied prior knowledge of Hamas’ attack and emphasized Hamas as a liberation movement against Israeli occupation. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, blaming Israel for stalled hostage negotiations and accusing them of making excessive demands to compensate for their failures in Gaza. He expressed hope for a deal to be reached soon for the release of hostages as part of a broader settlement.
Amirabdollahian highlighted Iran’s support for Hamas as a liberation movement and denied any prior knowledge of Hamas’ recent attack on Israel. He criticized Israel for its actions in Gaza and expressed hope for a settlement to be reached in the hostage negotiations. Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, the Biden administration urged for calm to avoid further escalation of conflict. Both sides seem to be cautious following recent attacks, with a focus on preventing further violence and working towards a peaceful resolution.
