An Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson says his country is determined to punish Israel, following the killing of a top Hamas leader in Iran.
Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani told reporters on Monday that Iran has no intention of intensifying regional tensions. He said it is Israel that is ramping up tensions and instability in the region.
Kanaani said Iran will create deterrence and punish Israel with determination in a bid to safeguard its security and dignity. He said the international community should support Iran’s attempt to punish the “aggressor” in order to bring stability back to the region.
Iran threatened to launch a retaliatory attack against Israel, after Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed during a visit to Iran on July 31.
Iran blamed the killing on Israel. Speculation is rife that the Iran-backed militant group may join a possible retaliation on Israel.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Monday visited an Israeli Air Force facility to assess its air defense preparedness in anticipation of an Iranian attack. Gallant said Israel’s enemies are “carefully considering their steps.” He said Israel needs to prepare for all possibilities, including a “quick transition” to attack.
Fighting continued in the Gaza Strip on Monday. The Israeli military issued fresh evacuation orders in parts of Khan Younis and was intensifying its offensive.
The nearly 10-month-old conflict shows no signs of ending anytime soon. Health authorities in Gaza said the death toll since the fighting began has reached 39,623.