**Israel-Iran Tensions Escalate: Calls for Preemptive Strike Amid Threats of Retaliation**

Israeli and Iranian officials have exchanged fierce rhetoric following a recent Israeli strike on Iranian military targets. Heightened tensions have brought forth calls from Israeli leaders, such as Knesset Member Avigdor Liberman, for a preemptive strike to stave off anticipated Iranian retaliation prior to the US presidential election next Tuesday, November 5.

CNN reported that a "high-ranking source" indicated Iran's planned response to the Israeli strike would be "definitive and painful." The source noted that the retaliation is likely to occur before the US elections. "The response of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the aggression of the Zionist regime will be definitive and painful," the source stated.

Following the Israeli strikes, which focused primarily on military targets, there was some initial hope that Iran might show restraint. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's comments aimed to convey a measured stance, suggesting that the response should align with Iranian national interests. Moreover, the newly appointed President Masoud Pezeshkian appeared to advocate for caution.

Iranian military officials initially sought to downplay the impact of the Israeli strikes, with IRGC Commander Maj.-Gen. Hossein Salami stating that Israel had "failed to achieve its sinister goals" but also issuing a warning about "bitter consequences" for Israel. Despite these attempts, the tone from Iran has grown increasingly aggressive.

Israeli defense and security officials maintain that their strikes targeted strategic systems such as air defense and ballistic missile facilities. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi emphasized Israel's readiness for any Iranian retaliation, warning that if Iran were to launch missiles, Israel would respond even more forcefully.

Amid this backdrop, Knesset Member Avigdor Liberman urged for a shift from a defensive to an offensive strategy. On Wednesday, he advocated for Israel to pursue a preemptive strike to ensure Iranian threats do not materialize into action. He articulated this stance on 𝕏, stressing the need to move towards a decisive victory over a proportional reaction.