Khamenei vows 'harsh punishment' of Israel for attacks

Israel should expect a harsh punishment, said Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday after Israel launched attacks.

Khamenei's message was broadcast to the nation on Friday morning, hours after Israel struck locations in Tehran and other cities.

"The regime should await a harsh response," Khamenei said. "With this crime, the Zionist regime sealed for itself a bitter and painful destiny and will definitely see that (destiny) brought upon it."

Iranian Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesperson for the Armed Forces, also said on Friday morning the Islamic Republic's response to the attacks will be heavy.

The Israeli regime began military strikes in and near the Iranian capital, Tehran, as well as other cities in Iran overnight on Friday. The state TV said they saw the bodies of women and children among the victims.

Tasnim news agency of Iran reported that Chief Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Major General Hossein Salami and some other military and civilian figures have been assassinated in Israeli strikes. No confirmation from official sources was yet available.

Brigadier General Shekarchi also said that overnight strikes by the Israeli regime had been carried out with US support.

Israel has claimed they are attacking Iran's facilities and personnel related to nuclear programs and indicated that waves of attacks could continue.