How Israel could strike back against Iran? In the wake of a significant missile and drone strike by Iran targeting Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war cabinet is deliberating on potential responses.
The attack, believed to be the first of its kind originating from Iranian soil, has thrust a longstanding shadow conflict into the spotlight.
Strategic Considerations:
Netanyahu has publicly promised a robust retaliation, despite cautionary advice from the US and other allies who fear escalating regional tensions.
Also read: G7 leaders propose new sanctions on Iran for launching attack on Israel
Ministers within the Israeli government argue that inaction would be perceived as weakness and might embolden further aggression from Iran.
How Israel could strike back against Iran?
Several options are reportedly under consideration by Israeli strategists:
1. Air Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities
One of the most daring possibilities involves Israeli air strikes on Iranian nuclear sites or Revolutionary Guards’ bases.
Israel views Iran’s nuclear program as an existential threat and has a history of pre-emptive military action against perceived dangers.
2. Targeting Military Infrastructure
Another approach could involve strikes on Iranian military installations or critical infrastructure, aiming to convey deterrence without significant civilian casualties.
3. Cyberattacks
Israel is known for its cyber capabilities and has allegedly conducted cyberattacks on Iranian sites in the past.
A cyber operation could disrupt key infrastructure sectors or services.
4. Hitting Iranian Proxies
Instead of directly targeting Iran, Israel might opt to strike Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon or Houthis in Yemen.
5. Focus on Gaza
The Israeli government could intensify efforts against Hamas in Gaza, which receives support from Iran.
This approach is seen as part of a broader strategy to undermine the Iranian axis.
6. Covert Operations
Israel is speculated to have carried out covert operations, including assassinations, inside Iran previously. Such actions could be part of a response strategy.
Diplomatic Efforts:
Simultaneously, Israel is engaging in diplomatic maneuvers to isolate Iran further.
This includes seeking expanded sanctions and urging European nations to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization.
Awaiting Israel’s Decision:
As Israel weighs its options, tensions remain high, with the possibility of broader regional conflict looming over any potential retaliation.
The international community, particularly the US, is closely monitoring developments amid concerns of further escalation.
