Iran vows revenge after deadly attack on embassy compound in Syria
In a deadly escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran has accused Israel of bombing its embassy compound in Syria on Monday. The airstrike, which destroyed the consulate building in Damascus, resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, including top Iranian officials.
Among the casualties were Mohammed Reza Zahedi, a top commander of the Revolutionary Guard, and Mohammad Hadi Haji Rahimi, another high-ranking commander. This attack marks the highest-profile Iranian target killed since the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani in 2020.
Both Iran and Syria have pointed fingers at Israel as the perpetrator of the attack. Tehran has promised a “serious response,” while the Iranian-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has vowed “punishment and revenge.” Iran also plans to hold the United States accountable for its support of Israel.
Israel, however, has not officially commented on the attack. The Israeli military has stated that the targeted building was actually a Quds Force military facility disguised as a civilian building in Damascus.
The United States has denied any involvement or prior knowledge of the attack. Amidst growing tension between Tehran and Washington, Iran has warned of reciprocal measures against the aggressor and is seeking international support for its response.
Analysts fear that the attack on the Iranian embassy compound could lead to an increase in attacks by Iran’s proxies, potentially putting US troops in the Middle East at risk. As the region braces for further escalations, Iran is under pressure to demonstrate its strength without triggering a broader conflict.
Hezbollah, Iran’s powerful ally in Lebanon, could play a crucial role in Iran’s response to the attack. The group has already warned Israel of consequences and praised the slain officials as “great martyrs.”
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing domestic pressure to secure the release of hostages taken during the Gaza war. Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets calling for Netanyahu’s resignation and new elections.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Middle East remains on edge amidst the threat of further violence and retaliation.