TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has issued a stark warning, stating that Iran has "identified all its targets" in the occupied territories and is prepared to retaliate against Israel in response to any military strike.

Araqchi's comments came during an interview with Turkish broadcaster NTV on Saturday, amid mounting Israeli threats of military action against Iran, particularly concerning its nuclear facilities.

"Any attack on Iran would cross a red line, and we will not leave it unanswered," Araqchi declared. He emphasized that Iran is fully prepared to respond to any aggressive actions, specifically pointing to a potential counterattack on identified targets in Israeli-controlled areas. “We have pinpointed all our targets there, and a similar attack will be carried out in response,” he added.

Araqchi highlighted Iran's missile attack on October 1 against Israeli military, espionage, and intelligence sites as a key example of Tehran's willingness to strike back when provoked. The operation, he said, came after Israeli forces assassinated prominent figures within the regional Resistance movement. According to Araqchi, 90 percent of the Iranian missiles launched during the operation successfully hit their intended targets, all of which were military, avoiding any civilian or economic locations.

Since October 2023, Israel has been engaged in intense military operations on two fronts—Gaza and Lebanon—which have so far resulted in over 42,500 casualties in Gaza and more than 2,400 in Lebanon. 

Israel has also targeted and killed several leaders of Resistance groups, including Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas. Despite Sinwar’s assassination, Araqchi emphasized that Hamas remains resolute, with his death only strengthening the group’s resolve and inspiring further commitment among Palestinian youth.

The Iranian diplomat went on to denounce the United States for its unwavering support of Israel, stating that without U.S. backing, Israel would not be able to sustain its military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. "If the Americans truly had the political will, they could stop these attacks," Araqchi said. He also warned that if the conflict escalates into a broader war, the U.S. could find itself dragged into the fight, an outcome Tehran does not desire.

Araqchi further cautioned that the ongoing violence could spread beyond Israel’s borders, potentially engulfing the Persian Gulf region. Despite the escalating situation, he expressed hope for diplomatic solutions, stressing that "there is still a chance for diplomacy." However, he warned that it should not be left to the decisions of just one leader within the Israeli government.