Iran warns it may intervene if Israel's assault on Gaza continues

Axios reported the information, citing two diplomatic sources. 

Iran conveyed a message to Israel, emphasizing its desire to avoid further escalation in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. However, it also made it clear that it would be compelled to intervene if Israeli operations in Gaza persist.

This message from Iran was delivered to Israel through the United Nations. It coincides with efforts by the Biden administration to prevent a larger conflict involving Iran and the Iranian-backed Lebanese group, Hezbollah.

Specifically, Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, met with UN Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland in Beirut on Saturday, as confirmed by two diplomatic sources.

During their meeting, Tor Wennesland called on Amir-Abdollahian to assist in preventing the Gaza-Israel conflict from spreading throughout the broader Middle East region.

Iran's foreign minister responded by expressing Iran's desire to prevent the conflict from evolving into a regional war and to help secure the release of civilians held by Hamas in Gaza.

Simultaneously, Amir-Abdollahian underscored Iran's "red lines." According to the sources, he stated that if Israel's military operations continue, especially if Israel follows through on its promise of a ground offensive in Gaza, Iran will be compelled to take action.

Tor Wennesland conveyed this message to Israel's national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, and other officials.

• The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been preparing for a ground operation in Gaza, although the start has been delayed due to an extended evacuation deadline for the civilian population in the area.

• On the morning of Sunday, October 15, 2023, the pro-Iranian Shiite group Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, launched a missile attack on the Al-Raheb IDF base located on the Israeli-Lebanese border.