Iran Vows Decisive Response to Israeli Strikes on Nuclear Sites

Iran has vowed a heavy and decisive response to Israel's recent attacks on key sites related to its nuclear program and military, which Iranian officials claim were conducted with U.S. support, a charge the U.S. denies. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesperson for the Iranian Armed Forces, stated that Israel will pay a heavy price for the strikes, which included attacks on residential areas and resulted in the deaths of several commanders. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, described the Israeli strikes as sealing a "bitter and painful" destiny for Israel and promised harsh punishment. Iranian officials have indicated that plans for retaliation are being discussed at the highest levels, though the timing and scope have not been disclosed. The attacks, referred to as "Operation Rising Lion," mark the most serious escalation in tensions between the two nations since last year's exchanges of missile and drone strikes. The situation remains highly volatile, with Iran preparing a substantial response while the U.S. continues to deny involvement in the Israeli operations.