Iranian officials have warned of a “crushing response” following a reported joint Israel-U.S. strike, as defense sources assess a high likelihood of imminent missile retaliation.
Iran is preparing to retaliate after what officials described as a combined Israel-U.S. attack on its territory, according to statements reported by Reuters on Saturday. “Tehran is preparing for retaliation; the response will be crushing,” Iranian officials said, vowing a strong counter-strike. The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and fears of rapid escalation.
Defense establishment sources cited by Walla assessed that the likelihood of an Iranian response within hours — including missile launches — is increasing. According to the report, one of the objectives of the strikes was to remove threats to Israel’s home front, particularly missile launchers and bases used for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The strikes were said to be expanding to additional Iranian locations, including Qom, Isfahan, Kermanshah and Karaj.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continued to reinforce its operational posture, surging forces to bases and staffing command headquarters. Central Command was reportedly reinforced with five companies, and alert levels were raised along Israel’s borders amid concerns over potential retaliatory attacks. Witnesses also reported unusually heavy helicopter traffic across parts of Israel as troops were repositioned between operational areas.
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