Iran warns of retaliation if Israel expands Beirut attacks

by AZADEH AKBAR
Special contributor
TEHRAN, (CAJ News) – IRAN has issued a stark warning that any Israeli expansion of military operations against Beirut and its southern suburbs could trigger retaliatory action affecting northern Israel, amid growing international concern over escalating hostilities in Lebanon.

Major General Ali Abdollahi, commander of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, warned that residents of northern Israel should leave the area if Israel follows through on threats to strike Beirut and the Dahieh district.

According to Iranian state-linked media reports, the warning was issued after Israeli leaders threatened additional military action against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.

The warning comes as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, with cross-border rocket attacks, drone strikes and military operations raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

Israeli officials have argued that military operations are aimed at countering Hezbollah attacks on northern Israeli communities, while critics contend that Israel’s actions risk further destabilising Lebanon and widening the conflict.

Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump reportedly intervened diplomatically, holding talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and urging restraint regarding proposed strikes on Beirut.

Several media outlets reported that Trump sought to prevent further escalation, particularly as tensions threatened ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran.

Iranian officials warned that any expansion of attacks in Lebanon could have broader regional consequences. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that crossing what it described as “red lines” in Lebanon and Gaza could provoke a wider confrontation.

The latest developments underscore the fragile security situation in the Middle East, where conflicts involving Israel, Hezbollah, Iran and other regional actors continue to fuel fears of a wider war.

– CAJ News