Iran threatens Israel with ballistic missile strikes amid US tensions
What's the story
Amid rising tensions with the United States, Iran has issued a threatening message to Israel. A banner in central Tehran's Palestine Square showed a map of central Israel with key targets marked. The message warned of ballistic missile strikes if the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) or the US military attacks Iran. Notably, Jerusalem is absent from the map displayed on the banner.
Targeted locations
'You start... We finish it' message on banner
The banner highlights key targets in central Israel, including Ben-Gurion Airport and the IDF's Kirya base headquarters in Tel Aviv. It also marks the IDF Intelligence Directorate's base at Glilot near Herzliya. The message on the banner reads, "You start... We finish it," indicating a readiness for retaliation if provoked.
Diplomatic discussions
Netanyahu to meet Trump, discuss Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump this week. The meeting will focus on Iran, with Netanyahu expected to stress that any agreement should require Tehran to stop its support for the Iranian axis. The IDF remains on high alert as these diplomatic talks unfold.
Escalating tensions
US intensifies pressure on Iran
The United States is ramping up pressure on Iran as nuclear talks continue. US President Donald Trump has warned Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to be "very worried." He has also ordered tariffs on countries trading with Iran despite sanctions. The US Embassy in Tehran has advised American citizens to leave the country immediately, citing possible arrests.
Leadership absence
Khamenei's unusual absence raises concerns
Notably, for the first time since 1989, Iran's Supreme Leader skipped a crucial meeting with air force commanders on February 8. His absence is attributed to fears of a sudden US strike. Although Iranian diplomats described the recent discussions with the US on nuclear enrichment in Oman as a "good start," Iran has maintained that no one can stop it from continuing its nuclear enrichment activities. Meanwhile, the US has been unrelentingly pressuring Iran to drop its nuclear program.