Israel increases defences as Iran vows payback for Syria strike

Israel has heightened its air defence measures and initiated the mobilisation of reservists amidst mounting anticipation of potential retaliation from Iran following a recent strike in Syria. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday the reinforcement of its air defence systems in preparation for any prospective Iranian reprisal, following a strike earlier in the week in Syria which resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian military figures.

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Iran, in response, has issued a stern warning, asserting that Israel will face consequences for the attack near Iran’s embassy in Damascus on Monday.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said that Israel is “increasing preparedness” in the face of threats from various quarters in the Middle East.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation for an Israeli airstrike in Syria that claimed the lives of senior military personnel. Khamenei’s declaration on Tuesday underscored Iran’s determination to hold Israel accountable for the attack, which targeted members of the Revolutionary Guards, including two generals, at the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus.

Despite the mounting rhetoric, Israel has not officially acknowledged responsibility for the strike in Syria.

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The incident has further complicated an already tense situation in the Middle East, with simmering tensions since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October. While Tehran has sought to avoid direct confrontation with Israel, it has supported allies involved in engagements with Israeli and US interests. However, concerns persist that the recent escalation could exacerbate hostilities in the region.