Iran promises controlled attack on Israel

Iran promises a non-escalatory response to Israel for the attack on its consulate in Damascus (photo: Getty Images)

Iran has signaled to Washington that it will respond to a potential Israeli attack on its embassy in Syria in a way that avoids serious escalation and will not act hastily, Iranian sources reported, reports The Times of Israel.

According to sources cited by The Times of Israel, Iran's message to Washington was conveyed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian during his visit to the Arab Gulf state of Oman, which often acts as a mediator between Tehran and Washington.

A source familiar with US intelligence was not aware of the message conveyed via Oman, but says Iran has been very clear that its response to the attack on its Damascus embassy compound would be controlled and non-escalatory and planned to use regional proxies to launch several attacks on Israel, the source added.

Threat of Iran's attack on Israel

On April 1, a missile strike on the Syrian capital, Damascus, destroyed the building of the Iranian consulate. At least seven Iranians were killed, including two generals. One of the deceased military officials was identified as senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Mohammad Reza Zahedi.

Iran officially blamed Israel for the attack and promised a harsh response.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country would be able to defend itself and would act on the principle: "Whoever attacks the country or plans to attack will suffer themselves."

Israel warned Iran that in the event of an attack from its territory, the country would retaliate.

Meanwhile, Iran has appealed to the US not to intervene in the attack on Israel.