WANA (Jun 17) – Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, the Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces has announced a new phase in the country’s military response.

 

Major General Mousavi stated that “the operations conducted so far have been aimed solely at deterrence, and punitive actions will be carried out soon.” Speaking in a stark and cautionary tone, he addressed residents of the occupied territories — particularly Tel Aviv and Haifa — urging them: “For the sake of your own safety, leave these areas and do not fall victim to ruthless ambitions.”

 

A simultaneous statement described recent Israeli attacks as “brutal aggression” targeting Iranian civilians — including women, children, and the elderly — as well as the Islamic Republic’s media outlets. The statement emphasized the Iranian people’s resilience in the face of “oppression and aggression” and declared: “Our armed forces have dealt severe blows to the enemy — and this is only the beginning.”

 

The statement concluded with a firm message: “The people of Iran, and freedom-seekers around the world, can be certain: we will avenge the blood of our martyrs.”

 

This message from Iran’s top military commander comes as hostilities between Iran and Israel continue to intensify.