IRGC chief vows ‘different’ form of revenge against Israel

After a period of relative calm in Iran's aggressive rhetoric toward Israel, IRGC Chief Commander Hossein Salami stated on Sunday that Iran's revenge against Israel would be “different,” though he did not provide further details.

"The Israelis will taste the bitter revenge for their wickedness,” Salami threatened.

For more than a month since the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31, Iranian officials, who blame Israel for the attack, have been issuing threats of a severe response. However, no direct Iranian retaliation has occurred, unlike the large missile and drone strike in April, which followed an Israeli attack on Iran’s consular compound in Damascus.

In the meantime, Iranian officials have softened their rhetoric, signaling that Tehran's response may not involve a large-scale, direct attack. However, Salami's statement on Sunday served as both a renewed threat and an indication that Tehran is likely avoiding a major escalation. His remarks suggest a more calculated, possibly asymmetric response, rather than an immediate, overt military operation.

According to Tasnim News Agency, which is affiliated with the IRGC, Hossein Salami, when asked about "when, where, and how" Iran’s revenge on Israel will be carried out, stated: "It will certainly be different, and this mystery will be solved in time for everyone."

In a gathering in Yasuj Sunday evening, Hossein Salami stated that Israel is "surrounded by Muslims" and, referring to Iran’s anticipated revenge, added that the "nightmare of inevitable action" shakes Israel day and night. He also commented on protests over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's failure to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, saying, "They cannot continue their political life like this, and we are witnessing signs of their political downfall."

The IRGC chief previously responded to a reporter's question about revenge for the killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, stating, "You will hear good news." On Tuesday, September 3, Mostafa Rostami, head of Khamenei's representative office in universities, added, "We await revenge for the blood of the martyrs, especially the martyr who was our guest. This revenge is delayed due to considerations, but it is certain."

Although Iran quickly vowed revenge after Haniyeh's killing, it faced a dilemma. A direct attack risked triggering a major military escalation, potentially exposing key targets within Iran to retaliation. On the other hand, failing to act would damage its credibility in the region, particularly among its allies and proxy forces. This put Tehran in a challenging position, balancing the need to maintain its reputation with the danger of escalating the conflict further.