Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a rare sermon on Friday, asserting that his country's recent ballistic missile attack on Israel was both legal and legitimate. This public address marked Khamenei's first appearance during Friday prayers in Tehran in nearly five years.
Khamenei emphasized that Iran will not delay or rush in pursuing its obligations to confront Israel. He justified Tuesday's missile barrage of nearly 200 missiles as a justified response to what he deemed as Israel's 'crimes.'
Furthermore, Khamenei declared that the resistance in the region, including recently slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, will persist despite the loss of its leaders.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed the death of Mohammad Rashid Sakafi, the commander of Hezbollah's Communications Unit, in an airstrike in Beirut, Lebanon. Sakafi had been overseeing Hezbollah's communication capabilities since 2000.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan commented on the Iranian missile attack, describing it as 'defeated and ineffective.' He highlighted the coordinated efforts between the U.S. military and the IDF in repelling the strikes. U.S. naval destroyers collaborated with Israeli Air Defense units to intercept and neutralize the incoming missiles.
Sullivan emphasized the significance of the joint response, noting that President Biden and Vice President Harris closely monitored the situation from the White House Situation Room. He underscored the importance of safeguarding American interests and promoting stability moving forward.
In conclusion, the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel underscore the volatile dynamics in the region, with both sides asserting their positions amidst ongoing hostilities.
