Tensions escalate as Iran rejects Western calls for restraint

New Delhi, Aug 13: Iran dismisses calls from the UK and other Western nations to refrain from retaliating against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month. Despite UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s rare phone conversation urging Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to “stand down its ongoing threats of a military attack,” Pezeshkian emphasized that retaliation was a “legal right” and a “way to stop crime,” according to the Iranian news agency.

Israel, while not officially confirming its involvement in Haniyeh’s assassination, has heightened its military alertness. The US, anticipating possible Iranian or proxy attacks, has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East to support Israel’s defence.

Hezbollah movement in Lebanon has also threatened retaliation following Israel’s killing of one of its top commanders in Beirut. Iranian state news agency Irna reported that Pezeshkian accused Western nations of enabling Israel’s continued “atrocities” and destabilizing regional peace and security. He reaffirmed that Iran views punitive actions as a legitimate response to aggression.

In a separate statement, Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed the restraint urged by London, Paris, and Berlin, labelling their demands as lacking political logic and violating international law. The Israeli military, taking Iran’s statements seriously, remains on high alert, with Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stating that they are prepared to respond to any aggression.

Earlier on Monday, leaders from the US, UK, France, Germany, and Italy had issued a joint statement advocating for de-escalation and emphasizing the urgency of securing a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza.

In a move to show military support for Israel, the US has deployed the USS Georgia, a guided missile submarine, to the region, alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, which is accelerating its journey.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened an emergency meeting at Iran’s request, where Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei reiterated the seriousness of Iran’s anticipated response. The global community is closely monitoring these developments, as any Iranian retaliation could significantly alter the dynamics in the region.

US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby expressed concerns similar to those of Israel, warning that an Iranian attack could occur as soon as this week, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the situation and the need for preparedness.

Several airlines have already cancelled their flights to several countries in West Asia and several countries have issued a travel advisory asking their citizens to restrain from travelling to the conflict zones.