Report: US Warns Iran Against Attacking Israel
The Facts
The US has reportedly issued a warning to Iran of serious potential damage to the country and the region should it take retaliatory measures against Israel over the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday, citing an unnamed US official, that Washington cautioned Tehran of a "serious risk" to the Iranian economy and government stability "if it goes down that path."
The Spin
Pro-Iran narrative
It's ridiculous for the US to warn Iran against exercising its right to retaliate, as it not only failed to condemn the Israeli assassination of top Hamas and Hezbollah leaders but assisted Israel in carrying out the heinous killings. Additionally, how can Washington claim to be committed to a cease-fire while unconditionally bolstering the Israeli war machine? Tehran reserves all options for retaliation against the Israeli regime and will consider ways to hold the US accountable via international bodies.
Anti-Iran narrative
Given the potentially dire consequences, Iran should take the US warning seriously. Washington will not hesitate to protect its interests and partners, and to reinforce its message to the Iranian regime. The pressure seems effective, as contrary to its martial rhetoric, Iran's military retaliation against Israel has yet to materialize. Tehran and its proxies are primarily responsible for the region's destabilization, and it would come to bitterly regret any further escalation.
