Iranian cleric says Israeli actions will be met with firm response

Israel’s killing of Iranian military and scientific personnel showed its "desperation" and would bring a strong response, Lotfollah Dezhkam, the representative of the Supreme Leader in Fars Province, said on Friday.

In remarks carried by Iranian media, Dezhkam described the airstrikes as "cowardly" and said they signaled the eventual end of Israel’s presence in the region. “Israel must know it will never realize its dream of staying in the region,” he said. “Its end is near.”

He added that those killed in the attacks had long aspired to martyrdom and their deaths would only strengthen public resolve: “If the enemies think by targeting a few prominent individuals the people will retreat from the path of resistance, they are gravely mistaken.”

Calling on the public to remain disciplined, Dezhkam emphasized that all action must follow the guidance of Iran’s Supreme Leader. He warned against any uncoordinated retaliation but affirmed readiness for “any necessary steps” in what he referred to as the “arena of resistance.”

Dezhkam concluded by expressing hope for what he called a "great victory" and said Iran would respond more forcefully than in the past.