Iran is currently preparing for a potential Israeli retaliatory strike, a situation that has led the country’s leadership to order the military to be on high alert. Tehran, however, is also actively working to avoid escalating the tensions into a full-scale war, particularly after witnessing the devastation that recent conflicts have brought upon its allies in Lebanon and Gaza. This measured approach highlights Iran’s cautious yet resolute strategy to project strength without plunging into a direct conflict.
Four Iranian officials, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue, revealed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has instructed the armed forces to devise a range of response plans. The officials noted that the scale of Iran’s reaction would depend on the nature and severity of an Israeli attack. For instance, if Israeli strikes are limited to specific military bases or warehouses storing missiles and drones, Tehran might opt for restraint. But if an Israeli assault causes widespread damage and heavy casualties, Iranian forces would be prepared to respond forcefully. Any attacks on vital infrastructure—such as oil facilities or nuclear sites—or assassinations of high-ranking officials would, in particular, mandate a strong response.
Potential retaliation options under consideration include a barrage of up to 1,000 ballistic missiles, intensified attacks by Iran’s proxy groups like Hezbollah, and disruptions to global energy supplies through the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. Although Iran publicly states it does not seek war, its leaders are wary of appearing weak, especially following Israel’s recent assassinations of key figures in groups that Iran backs, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. In line with this, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently stressed that any Iranian response would be “proportionate and calculated” should an Israeli attack occur.
“Iran Prepares for Potential Israeli Strike, Aims to Avoid Full-Scale War”
