Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a strong warning to Israel following an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria. The attack, which took place in Damascus, resulted in the deaths of at least seven military officials from Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, including senior commanders.
Israel's military has refrained from commenting on the incident, but a spokesperson indicated that Israeli intelligence suggested the building targeted was a military facility of the Quds forces, rather than a consulate or embassy.
In response to the attack, Khamenei stated that Iranians would seek retribution against Israel for their actions. He emphasized that those responsible for the attack would face consequences at the hands of Iran's 'brave men.'
Ali Shamkhani, Khamenei's political adviser, highlighted the direct responsibility of the US for strikes in Syria, regardless of whether they were aware of Israeli involvement. The US has denied any knowledge of plans to carry out the attack.
Following the incident, protests erupted in Tehran, with demonstrators expressing anger over the bombing of Iran's consulate. Chants of 'Death to Israel!' and 'Revenge! Revenge!' echoed through the streets as protestors burned flags of Israel and the United States.