Iran’s military chief, Abdolrahim Mousavi, called on Tuesday for the inhabitants of major Israeli cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv to evacuate, indicating impending “punitive” strikes.
Mousavi stated in a video message shared by state television that “punitive operations will commence soon,” marking the fifth day of violent clashes that began following an Israeli airstrike on Friday. He noted that previous assaults on Israel had only served “deterrence” objectives so far.
Addressing Israelis, Mousavi encouraged those living in the “occupied territories,” especially in Tel Aviv and Haifa, to leave these regions for their safety.
Mousavi cautioned Israelis against becoming casualties due to the “animalistic desires” of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Tehran attributes to the escalation of conflict.
Following a history of hostility and a lengthy clandestine conflict, Israel executed a surprise strike in the early hours of Friday, claiming it was aimed at Iran’s nuclear and military sites.
Thus far, the attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 224 individuals in Iran, including prominent military leaders, nuclear experts, and civilians.
In retaliation, Iran has launched waves of drones and missiles that have claimed the lives of at least 24 individuals in Israel, according to the latest updates from the prime minister’s office.
On Monday, Israel warned individuals to evacuate a northern area of the Iranian capital before targeting the state television headquarters, an assault that the broadcaster reported killed three people.
