TEHRAN – The Iranian military’s chief of staff has said the Islamic Republic is ready to bring about a critical and powerful response if the invasion is revived, and has issued a strong warning against the potential resumption of Israeli hostilities.
In a telephone conversation on Sunday with Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman, Defence Minister Major General Abdulrahim Musavi emphasized that Iran did not start a conflict when Iran was attacked, but did not begin a conflict, but responded with full military force.
“We were not the ones who started this war, but we answered the attackers with all our strength,” General Musabi said. “Given serious questions about the enemy’s commitment, particularly his willingness to adhere to a pause of hostility towards Iran, we are ready to take serious action if the attack resumes.”
A top Iranian commander discussed the development of the region and the 12-day war between Israel and the United States, saying that while Tehran engaged in indirect negotiations with Washington, attacks on Iran targeted senior military commanders, nuclear scientists and civilians were carried out.
“These two regimes have once again proven that they do not respect international norms or legal frameworks,” Musabi pointed out. “This fact was made clear to the global community during the 12-day war imposed.”
The attack launched by Israel on June 13 caused powerful Iranian retaliation under the “True Promise III” operation, during which the military attacked strategic Israeli military and industrial sites using sophisticated and precise guided missiles that overwhelmed the regime’s multi-layered defense system.
Israel announced its suspension of military elections last Tuesday following US President Donald Trump’s suspension declaration, but Iranian officials remain unconvinced. Former White House strategist Steve Bannon admitted in an interview that the suspension, mediated with Qatar’s help, was a desperate move to “save Israel” as he faced retaliation beyond his operational capabilities. “They bitten more than they could bite,” Bannon said.
Iran’s concerns are further strengthened by Israel’s long-standing record of breaking a ceasefire, particularly in Gaza. In previous conflicts, including the 2008-2009, 2014 and 2023 conflicts, Israel repeatedly violated the ceasefire agreement within days or hours, and resumed fatal air strikes in civilian regions. This pattern, according to Iranian officials, has undermined the reliability of Tel Aviv’s commitment.
Meanwhile, Prince Khalid reaffirmed his condemnation of Saudi Arabia’s attacks and expressed his sadness towards the Iranian commander who taught him in the attacks. He highlighted Riyadh’s efforts to help end the conflict, and the need for continued cooperation between Tehran and Riyadh to promote peace and stability in the region.
In another statement, Brigadier General Esmaeli Kowouri, a senior member of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, also warned of a strong response to new attacks or attempts to assassinate Iranian officials.
“There is no actual ceasefire at this point. There is only a temporary pause for hostility,” Kousari said. “It all depends on when the enemy decides to resume its actions.”
“Americans, US Presidents, Zionists must know this. If they are going to assassinate any of our senior officials, Iranian troops will respond to painful troops. The next operation will be even tougher than “True Promise III.” We have never underestimated the threat of our enemies. ”
Both Iranian officials have reiterated that the Islamic Republic remains vigilant and determined in the face of threats.