Iran's Leader Orders Retaliatory Strike on Israel, NYT Says.

Iran's leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly ordered a direct strike on Israel in retaliation for the alleged assassination of Hamas' top leader in Tehran. The order was given at an emergency meeting of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Khamenei has publicly threatened retaliation, stating that Iran has a "duty to seek vengeance" and that Israel should expect a "severe punishment." If carried out, a direct strike could escalate tensions in the region. Iranian commanders are considering using drones and missiles on military targets in Tel Aviv and Haifa while avoiding civilian targets. Iran is also considering a coordinated attack with its proxies in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. Israel has not confirmed or denied involvement in the alleged assassination. [Extracted from the article]