Will Iran Choose a Firm Response?
WANA (Jun 13) – As fragile and slow-moving negotiations between Iran and the United States continued, a series of attacks—allegedly carried out by Israel—have shifted the political and security dynamics into a new phase. Early reports emerging this morning from Iranian media indicate multiple explosions in Tehran and other cities, apparently targeting military, nuclear, and even residential sites.
So far, only limited verified information is available, and most narratives rely on domestic sources such as Iran’s state broadcaster (IRIB) and media analyses. According to these sources, several high-ranking military and scientific figures may have been targeted, with names such as Hossein Salami, Mohammad Bagheri, Amir Ali Hajizadeh, Gholam Ali Rashid, Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, and Fereydoon Abbasi appearing in various reports. Civilian casualties—including women and children—have also been reported.
Israeli media have openly taken responsibility for the attacks, framing them as a means to pressure Iran into accepting U.S. demands. Meanwhile, U.S. officials, while acknowledging awareness of the incident, have denied any involvement—a claim met with skepticism by Iranian media and some analysts, especially in light of the reported use of American-made military equipment in the operation.
A building stands damaged in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Some reports suggest the use of missiles launched from Iraqi airspace, along with drones and infiltrating agents operating within Iran. In addition to the nuclear facilities near Natanz, certain residential complexes were also reportedly hit.
Public reaction within Iran has been swift and intense. Monitoring of social media indicates that a significant portion of Iranian users are calling for an immediate and “firm” response to the Israeli action. Others have criticized the government’s lack of retaliation following similar incidents last October, arguing that restraint has only emboldened the aggressor.
These developments have reignited public debate over whether talks with the United States should continue. Several analysts and political figures argue that such an operation could not have occurred without at least tacit U.S. approval, if not direct coordination. Some even blame Europe, pointing to recent European positions at the IAEA as helping to legitimize such attacks.
Amid all this, a recent speech by Iran’s Supreme Leader—granting the country’s armed forces a “free hand” to respond—has been interpreted by some observers as a potential prelude to new rounds of military escalation. On the other side, Israel has declared a state of emergency, mobilized reserve forces, and issued warnings to its citizens, signaling readiness for potential retaliation.
Message from Iran’s Supreme Leader Following Israeli Attack on Iran
WANA (Jun 13) – Following the criminal assault carried out by the Israeli regime at dawn today against Iran, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, issued a message to the Iranian nation. The full text of the message is as follows: In the Name of God, […]
Some international observers suggest that this Israeli military action is not only part of its broader confrontation with Iran, but also a product of its own internal political crises. The unstable political climate in Tel Aviv, mounting pressure on Netanyahu’s government, and the possible collapse of the Knesset are all factors that may have driven Israel to take such a step—possibly as a way for Netanyahu to deflect from domestic challenges.
Given Iran’s geographic depth and defense capabilities, some analysts now question whether such strikes can genuinely achieve the attacker’s long-term strategic goals—or whether they will only further complicate an already volatile regional equation.
Iran now stands at a critical juncture: will it respond with reciprocal military action, or will Tehran opt for a calculated and diplomatically measured approach?
The Hebrew message on the mural in Palestine Square, Tehran, following the Zionist regime’s attack on residential areas in Iran reads: “Look for shelter under the rubble!” / WANA News Agency
