Israel Threatens Iranian Energy Facilities in Retaliation for Attacks

Israeli Security Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday threatened to strike Iran's central energy facilities if Tehran launches any attack against Israel. Gallant stated that the Israeli military is on high alert and prepared to carry out a strike that he claimed would inflict unprecedented damage on Iran, setting it back "decades."

Speaking ahead of the Jewish New Year, Gallant warned Iran's leadership that any attack on Israel, regardless of its reason or location, would be met with a powerful response. He asserted that this response would cause severe damage to Iran, including its crucial energy infrastructure, which he described as a source of resources for Iran's military and terrorism apparatus.

Gallant added that the Israeli military is prepared for this mission under the directives of the Prime Minister and himself. He claimed such a strike would set Iran back decades and further destabilize the ruling regime. He also expressed hope that the Iranian people would be liberated from oppression in the coming year and extended New Year greetings to Jews in Iran and worldwide.

These threats follow similar statements made by Gallant on Wednesday, who claimed Israel had already struck Iranian strategic capabilities twice and would do so again if necessary. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a tour of Mount Hermon in occupied Syrian territory, vowed to continue the fight against Iran until its "terror regime" is defeated, stating Israel was close to achieving this goal and committed to dismantling the entire "axis."

The escalating threats from Israel occur amidst heightened tensions and increased Iranian attacks on American bases in the region. Israeli reports indicated that Israel would retaliate against any Iranian missiles or fragments reaching its territory, even if they were primarily aimed at U.S. targets. This comes as Iran faces increasing economic pressure due to U.S. sanctions on its oil exports, with its stored oil reserves significantly depleted.