The Iranian ruling class has been preparing for a long war against Israel. According to an official in Tehran, it has plans to “shut down Israel’s war machine,” in the process.

The official outlined Iran’s extensive list of potential targets within “occupied territories,” which include covert residences of Israeli government leaders, energy facilities, factories supplying military aircraft, and critical command-and-control infrastructure.

The United States has already vowed to take Israel’s side.

Israel Attacks Iran: Trump Vows To Defend Israel

Israel and Iran have been engaged in a fierce exchange of fire for three consecutive days. While, for all intents and purposes, this appears to be war, it hasn’t been officially declared as such. According to Israel’s emergency service, Magen David Adom, Iranian strikes have killed at least ten people, bringing the total death toll to 13. In Iran, Israeli strikes have caused at least 406 deaths and 654 injuries, according to the group Human Rights Activists. The Iranian government has not yet released official casualty figures.

”Iran has been preparing for a long war,” the official told RT, emphasizing the country’s resolve to confront Israel. According to the source, millions of Iranians rallied in the streets on Saturday, defying West Jerusalem’s attacks and demanding retribution. “This is an important support for Iran to continue its actions with force,” the official added.

Over 200 Israeli Warplanes Used Against Iran, Trump Warns ‘More Brutal’ Attacks Coming Without Nuclear Deal

The war machine is churning. Several conflicts around the globe are threatening to hit the boiling point. Several rulers around the world are urgently calling for de-escalation in order to prevent an all-out war. Russian President Vladimir Putin had condemned Israel’s strikes on Iran and expressed concern over further escalation. In a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday, Putin reiterated Moscow’s willingness to facilitate ceasefire negotiations between Iran and Israel.

It is difficult to say if Israel will accept terms dictated by Russia, however.

Trump has declined Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s request to join the war. How long will that last? What are your thoughts? Is it just a matter of time before the U.S. empire is elbow deep in this war too?

Trump Rejects Netanyahu’s Request To Join War, As Israel Needs Large US Bunker Buster Bombs