The New York Times quoted three informed Iranian officials as saying that the Iranian leader ordered a direct strike on Israel in response to the assassination of Haniyeh.

The newspaper added that among the options is a coordinated attack by Iran, Yemen, Syria and Iraq to achieve maximum impact.

The newspaper indicated that the leaders are considering launching an attack with drones and missiles on military targets around Tel Aviv and Haifa.

It explained that Khamenei issued his orders in an emergency meeting of the Supreme National Security Council.

It added that Khamenei ordered the Revolutionary Guards and the army to prepare plans for attack and defense if the war expands, and that Iran will be careful to avoid hitting civilian targets in any attack on Israel.