Israel Warns Iran of 'Devastating' Response to Any Attack

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stark warning to Iran on Thursday, stating that any Iranian attack on Israel would trigger a broad Israeli response, targeting the Islamic Republic's national, military, and civilian infrastructure, including its energy facilities.

Gallant made these remarks during a Rosh Hashanah toast for Ministry of Defense employees. He emphasized that an Iranian attack would remove "all existing limitations" on Israel's ability to strike Iran. "We will strike all national, military, and civilian infrastructure in Iran, including energy infrastructure, and return Iran deep into the Stone Age and darkness," Gallant declared.

The Defense Minister asserted that the Tehran leadership has so far refrained from direct attack due to the heavy price it has already paid in previous confrontations with Israel. He claimed that Israel had "destroyed their nuclear program, eliminated Khamenei, and severely damaged their strategic capabilities."

However, Gallant cautioned that Iran's internal distress could alter the regime's calculations and lead to impulsive actions. He indicated that Israel is observing signs that severe economic pressure and fears of popular uprising and regime collapse might push the Iranian leadership towards "desperate measures."

Gallant concluded by assuring that Israel's defense establishment is prepared for all scenarios, stating, "Israel is well-prepared in defense and offense for any possibility, and the IDF is ready to carry out the mission."