Khamenei's strong stance follows Israeli airstrikes that reportedly targeted senior figures in Hezbollah, raising fears of a wider conflict. Iran's leaders have expressed solidarity with Hezbollah and other regional allies, vowing that retaliation will be inevitable. The killing of key individuals is seen as part of Israel's strategy to destabilize Iranian influence in the region. This cycle of violence has drawn international condemnation, with various nations warning that such actions could escalate tensions significantly throughout the Middle East.