American Media: The Islamic Republic Prepares for 'Retaliation' Against Israel's Attack on Its Consulate in Syria

Israeli and U.S. officials say the Islamic Republic is planning a retaliatory attack against Israel in response to the attack on its consulate building in Damascus. According to CBS News, U.S. intelligence indicates that the Islamic Republic is preparing a large number of Shahed drones and cruise missiles for an attack on Israeli positions. The report adds that the timing and target of Iran's potential attack on Israeli interests are still unclear, but it may occur by the end of Ramadan and could be launched from Iraq, Syria, or Iranian territory, targeting an Israeli diplomatic center in the region. In the attack attributed to Israel on Monday, April 1, at least six commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including Mohammad Reza Zahidi, commander of the Quds Force in Syria and Lebanon, were killed. The commander of the IRGC warned at the funeral of the deceased that Israel 'cannot escape the consequences of the assassination of IRGC forces.' Ali Khamenei, the leader of the Islamic Republic, also reacted to this action, stating that Israel 'will be punished by our brave men. We will make them regret this crime and similar acts by the grace of God.' This news comes as Islamic Republic officials distanced themselves from harsh rhetoric and emphasized the 'necessity of restraint' on Friday. This change in tone was evident in the speeches of Ali Khamenei's representatives during Friday prayers on April 7 in various cities. U.S. President Joe Biden, in a phone call with the Israeli Prime Minister, expressed America's support for Israel against threats from the Iranian regime, but his administration emphasized that the United States was unaware of this attack and warned Iranian leaders about the possibility of an attack on U.S. interests. On the line: The Islamic Republic and the dilemma of 'hard response' or 'strategic patience.' The change in the Islamic Republic's tone in 'response to Israel's attack'; 'turning the pot' replaced 'hard revenge.' Hezbollah Lebanon: Iran's response is on the way; Israel: We are prepared with layered defense. A political group in Iran emphasized Mohammad Reza Zahidi's role in Hamas's attacks on Israel. The shadow of 'crisis expansion' over the Middle East; Israel: Any retaliatory action by the Islamic Republic will face a decisive response. Biden to Netanyahu: U.S. policy depends on 'Israel's immediate action.' Israel: The army's fighter jets are 'ready for defense and attack.' Associated Press: The U.S. is preparing to respond to 'potential retaliatory attacks' by the Islamic Republic.