Tensions escalate as Israel prepares for possible Iranian retaliation

The intelligence, reported by Axios journalist Barak Ravid, cites two sources indicating that Iran is preparing to act on orders from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The orders call for a “harsh punishment” of Israel in retaliation for Haniyeh’s death. Ali Fadavi, a deputy commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, confirmed that these orders are “clear and explicit” and will be executed “in the best possible way.”

The assassination of Haniyeh is part of a series of targeted killings in recent months, which have also included leaders from Hezbollah and other groups aligned with Iran.

These events have intensified fears of a broader regional conflict, with both Israel and its adversaries escalating their military postures.

In response to the growing threat, the United States has begun deploying additional military forces to the region, signaling the seriousness of the situation.

Meanwhile, oil prices are rising as global markets react to the potential for conflict, further highlighting the international implications of the escalating tensions.

Despite the ongoing violence, which has already resulted in thousands of deaths in Gaza following a Hamas terror attack on Israel nine months ago, there has been no significant progress toward a political resolution.

Instead, the region appears to be inching closer to a wider war, with Iranian-backed forces reportedly attacking a US base in Iraq and preparing for more assaults.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, made it clear that Iran will not remain passive in the face of what it sees as aggression.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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