DUBAI, April 15. /TASS/. While Iran is not seeking to escalate tensions in the Middle East, it would respond to "any illegitimate or irrational measures" against Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani said.

"Iran is not seeking to escalate tensions in the region as it remains committed to the principles and goals set out in the UN Charter and international law, but, at any stage, it will act more resolutely than before to deter and punish the aggressor for any illegitimate or irrational actions if Iran’s red lines are crossed," the diplomat told a press conference that was broadcast by Iran’s SNN television.

On the evening of April 13, Iran launched drones and missiles toward Israel in response to what it called "repeated crimes" from Tel Aviv, including the attack on the consular office of the Iranian Embassy in Damascus ascribed to Israel. Tehran’s state-run media outlets said that military facilities in Israel were targeted. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed it had intercepted 99% of the nearly 300 projectiles launched at Israel with minor damage caused to the Nevatim Air Base. Israel did not report any fatalities or serious injuries.