Iran and its allies, including Hezbollah, will consider initiating direct attacks against Israel if the Gaza ceasefire talks prove unsuccessful – or if they perceive Israel as delaying negotiations, according to international media.
The Iranians have stated that their decision to retaliate will hinge on the outcomes of these discussions.
The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh during his visit to Tehran last month and Hezbollah Commander Fuad Shukr triggered a threat of retaliation.
Iran has asserted that Israel was responsible for the fatal incident, although the latter has neither confirmed nor denied involvement.
In response to the escalation of tensions in the region, the U.S. Navy dispatched warships and a submarine to the Middle East to reinforce Israeli defense capabilities.
Iranian officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to specify an anticipated timeframe for the continuation of negotiations before resorting to retaliatory measures. Meanwhile, Iran has been engaged in extensive discussions with Western countries along with the US “on ways to calibrate retaliation,” amid “an increased risk of a broader Middle East war,” Reuters reported.