Israel to target military and energy sites? Iran warns of ‘no red lines’

Israel has repeatedly said it will respond to Iran's missile barrage on October 1.

Published on: Oct 13, 2024, 16:15:53 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

US officials believe Israel is focusing on military and energy infrastructure as potential targets in its expected response to an Iranian missile strike earlier this month, NBC News reported Saturday, citing unnamed officials.

A gas flare on an oil production platform is seen alongside an Iranian flag in the Gulf. (REUTERS File)

The report suggests Israel has narrowed down its options in retaliation for Iran's October 1 attack, which followed Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon and the killing of several Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. The missile barrage was Tehran’s second direct retaliation this year, escalating tensions in the region.

Also Read | Israeli strike 'completely' destroys Lebanon mosque; 3rd UN peacekeeper wounded

While Israel has not made final decisions on the scope or timing of any retaliation, there are no signs that nuclear facilities or assassination operations are being considered, according to the US officials cited by NBC. The response could come during the ongoing Yom Kippur holiday, the report added.

Israeli officials have yet to comment on the NBC report even as the country has vowed to retaliate for the Iranian missile attack, with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant saying the response would be "deadly, precise, and surprising".

Also Read | Hezbollah warns Israelis to stay away from army in residential areas

As the region braces for Israel's retaliation, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araqchi on Sunday said that Iran has "no red lines" when it comes to defending its people and interests.

Israel-Hezbollah fight escalates

Meanwhile, the clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, which erupted a year ago during the Gaza war, have worsened in recent weeks. The Israeli military continues operations aimed at dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

"Over the past day, the IAF (air force) has struck approximately 200 Hezbollah targets deep in Lebanon and southern Lebanon, including terrorist cells, launchers, anti-tank missile posts, and terrorist infrastructure sites," the Israeli military said.

Also Read | Tehran’s choices after Israeli strikes in Beirut

Lebanese officials report over 2,100 people killed and 10,000 wounded since the conflict began, with more than 1.2 million people displaced by Israeli strikes across southern Lebanon, Beirut's suburbs, and the Bekaa Valley.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get the latest World News, breaking headlines and global updates from the US, UK, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Russia and other countries. Follow major international events on Hindustan Times.