Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered a strong message asserting Jerusalem's status in a video posted on Monday. Speaking in Hebrew, Khamenei emphasized that Jerusalem, known as Al Quds in Arabic, will remain under Muslim control, promising a celebration of victory worldwide.

The video comes in the aftermath of Iran's first-ever direct attack on Israeli soil, which saw more than 300 drones and missiles targeting Israeli territory. Khamenei's message, while not directly referencing the attack, underscores Iran's stance regarding Jerusalem's sovereignty amidst escalating tensions in the region.

The significance of Khamenei's message lies in Jerusalem's symbolic and religious importance, particularly as the third holiest site in Islam, housing the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque. The city, however, remains a flashpoint, under Israeli occupation and control.

This isn't the first time Khamenei has addressed Israel in Hebrew. In a previous message last January, he condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and predicted the eventual disappearance of the Israeli state, emphasizing the remembrance of its perceived crimes.

The recent escalation traces back to Israel's attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, resulting in casualties among Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran retaliated with a significant strike on Israeli territory, prompting tensions to reach new heights.

Major General Mohammad Bagari, head of Iran's armed forces, declared the attack a success, achieving its intended objectives. However, he indicated that further actions would depend on Israel's response, leaving room for further escalation.

In response, Israel's wartime cabinet approved offensive and defensive measures, signaling readiness to retaliate. Despite warnings from Western allies, Israel has yet to finalize the timing and nature of its response, keeping the situation on edge in the volatile Middle East.