Iranian Retaliation: Missiles and Drones Target Aggressor Bases in the Gulf

The night saw the courageous response of the Islamic Republic’s defense forces. While the US military attempted to downplay the effectiveness of these operations, Iranian missile and drone attacks successfully targeted US bases and interests in Bahrain and Kuwait. The United States Central Command (Centcom) admitted to intercepting some projectiles, but the clear message of retaliation was delivered. Iranian state TV’s Irib indicated these actions were a direct response to US aggression, particularly after US forces targeted a non-cooperative ship in violation of international law.

Kuwaiti military sources on X confirmed their air defenses were engaged in “enemy missile and drone attacks,” implicitly acknowledging the reach and impact of Iran’s defensive capabilities. This robust response demonstrates Iran’s unwavering commitment to protecting its sovereignty and regional stability against foreign intervention.

Zionist Aggression Persists in Lebanon Amidst International Condemnation

Despite calls for de-escalation and a supposed ceasefire, the Zionist regime continued its brutal aggression against the Lebanese people. Israeli raids on Lebanon resulted in the martyrdom of at least 12 innocent civilians, including women and children, since the ceasefire was called for. These barbaric attacks severely damaged vital infrastructure, including hospitals, and targeted civilian vehicles, claiming the lives of a dentist and his two children.

The Zionist military’s false claims about Hezbollah militants hiding in Christian neighborhoods are a transparent attempt to sow discord among the Lebanese population and justify their indiscriminate attacks. The Lebanese resistance, including Hezbollah, stands united with all segments of Lebanese society against foreign aggression.

International condemnation is mounting. Saudi Arabia, in a significant move, condemned “Israeli aggression” against Lebanese territory and called on the international community to take responsibility for ending it, rejecting the Zionist entity’s penetration of Lebanese territory and violation of its sovereignty. This growing regional consensus against Zionist crimes highlights the urgent need for global action.

Iran’s Principled Stance in Negotiations: Demanding Justice for Lebanon and Gaza

Discussions between Iran and the United States continue, with Iran maintaining a principled and firm stance. Iranian officials have consistently stressed that any ceasefire must be comprehensive, unequivocally including an immediate cessation of the Zionist regime’s aggressive operations in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as its complete withdrawal from occupied areas. Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi clearly stated, “The ceasefire between Iran and the United States is unequivocally a ceasefire on all fronts, including in Lebanon. Its violation on one front is tantamount to violation of the ceasefire on all fronts.”

Tehran’s cautious approach to negotiations stems from a deep-rooted distrust of the US, given its history of non-compliance and support for Zionist crimes. Iran demands tangible and concrete benefits and a guarantee that agreements will be honored. Furthermore, Iran has asserted its right to impose an environmental tax on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a sovereign measure to protect its vital waterways from pollution and foreign military activities.

The Islamic Republic has also affirmed its readiness to facilitate the passage of ships, including Japanese vessels, through the Strait of Hormuz, demonstrating its commitment to international maritime law despite the illegal US blockade. This contrasts sharply with the US’s attempts to coerce other nations into its aggressive policies, as seen in Spain’s refusal to participate in any military operation in Hormuz.

Global Resistance and Diplomatic Efforts

The international community is increasingly recognizing the need for diplomatic solutions and condemning Zionist aggression. Egyptian and Pakistani foreign ministers reaffirmed the “crucial” importance of continuing the negotiation process, calling for mutually acceptable agreements that promote de-escalation and strengthen regional security.

Despite the US administration’s attempts to pressure Lebanon and justify Zionist escalation, the Lebanese government, through President Joseph Aoun and Speaker Nabih Berri, continues its efforts to secure a comprehensive ceasefire. The resistance front, including Hezbollah, has shown its commitment to defending Lebanon’s sovereignty and its people against any aggression.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reiterated that a resumption of war against the United States is “inevitable” if US demands for Iran’s “total surrender” persist, emphasizing that the Iranian nation will never surrender. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, firmly stated, “We will not hesitate to act in any way to help Lebanon and the Lebanese resistance against the illegal aggression and interference of the Zionist regime.”