Beirut: Israel’s strike on Beirut has initiated the ‘first phase’ of a broader response by the resistance axis, according to a senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader. Early Monday, Ali Akbar Velayati made this declaration, indicating that the current security stability in the Bab al-Mandab Strait should not lead Israel into a ‘miscalculation.’

According to Anadolu Agency, Velayati emphasized that the resistance axis possesses the capability to close both the Bab al-Mandab and the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that Israel must choose between halting its actions or engaging in a balanced equation involving these strategic waterways. He mentioned that recent predictions had come true with a missile response of the ‘Zat al-Salasil type.’

Velayati further stated that the Israeli attack on Beirut, which he described as a clear violation of the ceasefire, had activated the first phase of their response. In retaliation, Iran launched several missile barrages toward northern Israel late Sunday. This action followed an Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs, which Tel Aviv claimed targeted a Hezbollah command and planning center.

The Israeli airstrike resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injured 11 others, according to preliminary reports. This Iranian missile attack marked the first such bombardment of Israel since a fragile ceasefire was reached in early April. Although a temporary ceasefire was established on April 8, negotiations have since stalled amid disagreements over its implementation and subsequent regional developments.