(MENAFN) In a recent development, Israel's Economy Minister, Nir Barkat, has declared Iran as a "legitimate target" for potential military strikes, raising concerns of an imminent armed conflict between the two nations. In an interview with The Telegraph, Barkat expressed his belief that Iran's capital, Tehran, is the "head of the snake" behind recent hostilities, echoing similar sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Barkat drew parallels to the Cuban Missile Crisis, suggesting that Israel should adopt a strategy similar to President Kennedy's approach in 1962. According to Barkat, just as Kennedy threatened a response to Moscow for missiles in Cuba, Israel should respond to Iranian aggression with military force.
Prime Minister Netanyahu had previously accused Iran of supporting militant groups in Gaza, including orchestrating the October 7 attacks, where around 1,200 people were killed and over 200 taken hostage in a surprise raid by Hamas near Gaza. Israel retaliated with an aerial bombardment and ground operation in the region, resulting in a significant death toll.
Netanyahu asserted that Iran serves as the "head of the octopus," with its influence extending to groups such as the Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hamas. The Israeli Prime Minister claimed that direct attacks on Iran were already underway.
Iran has vehemently denied any involvement in the Hamas assault, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani dismissing the accusations as politically motivated. Despite Israel's claims, Iran maintains its innocence in the Gaza conflict and attributes the allegations to political agendas.
As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the international community closely watches the unfolding situation, concerned about the potential consequences of heightened hostilities between Israel and Iran. The accusations and threats from both sides further complicate an already volatile geopolitical landscape, raising fears of a broader armed conflict with far-reaching implications.
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