Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has strongly condemned the brutal Israeli airstrikes that struck Tehran and several other Iranian cities overnight, vowing that the Israeli regime will face a “harsh punishment” for its crimes.

In an address to the nation early Friday morning, Ayatollah Khamenei mourned the loss of innocent civilians and patriotic commanders assassinated during the unprovoked assault. “To the Great Iranian Nation,” the Leader began, “the Zionist regime carried out with its evil and bloody hand a crime in our dear country and revealed its wicked nature further by hitting residential areas.”

Iranian state media and eyewitnesses confirmed that women and children were among the victims of the Israeli attacks, which targeted civilian areas as well as strategic sites. Several residential buildings were severely damaged, further underlining the regime’s blatant disregard for human life.

Ayatollah Khamenei declared that the Zionist regime “should await a harsh response,” and affirmed that the blood of Iranian martyrs will not go unanswered. “With this crime, the Zionist regime sealed for itself a bitter and painful destiny and will definitely see that [destiny] brought upon it,” he said.

He also honored the memory of high-ranking IRGC commanders and nuclear scientists assassinated in the strikes, emphasizing that their mission will continue unabated. “Their successors and colleagues will immediately pick up their work,” he assured, signaling the Islamic Republic’s unwavering commitment to national defense and scientific advancement.

“The powerful hand of the Islamic Republic Armed Forces will not let go of Israel,” Ayatollah Khamenei warned, making clear that Iran is prepared to respond with strength and resolve to this outrageous act of aggression.

As the nation grieves its martyrs, it also stands united, with steadfast determination to defend its sovereignty and confront injustice wherever it arises. The world now watches, as Iran prepares to hold the perpetrators accountable for their crimes. (ILKHA)