War in Middle East: 5 ways in which Iran could 'punish' Israel

War in Middle East: 5 ways in which Iran could ‘punish’ Israel

NEW DELHI: After an airstrike on its Damascus consulate, which resulted in the deaths of 16 people including a senior Quds Force commander, Iran has vowed retaliation against Israel, the alleged perpetrator. As tensions rise, the nature of Iran’s response could significantly influence regional stability.

Israel did not claim responsibility for the airstrike on April 1. But Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said Israel “must be punished and shall be” for an operation he said was equivalent to an attack on Iranian soil.

Meanwhile, during a press briefing on Friday, US President Joe Biden expressed his expectation of an imminent attack by Iran on Israel, cautioning Tehran against such actions. Responding to journalists’ inquiries about his stance on Iran, Biden’s message was concise yet firm. “Don’t,” he advised Tehran, signaling a stern warning.

Highlighting the United States’ unwavering support for Israel, Biden reaffirmed the commitment to its defense. “We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed,” he asserted. This statement emphasizes the strong alliance between the United States and Israel and the US government’s readiness to support Israel in the face of potential threats.

In response to the volatile situation, several countries have issued travel advisories. Nations such as India, France, Poland, and Russia have cautioned their citizens against traveling to the region. Further emphasizing the seriousness of the situation, Germany urged its citizens on Friday to depart from Iran, indicating growing international concerns over safety in the area.

According to reports, an individual with insights from the Iranian leadership revealed that although discussions about a potential attack are ongoing, a definitive decision has yet to be made.

Here is how Iran could ‘punish’ Israel

Missile and drone strikes: Utilizing its arsenal, Iran could launch missile or armed drone strikes against Israeli military sites or infrastructure. This approach would be a direct and visible form of retaliation but would also significantly raise the stakes, potentially drawing regional and international responses.

Attacks on Israeli or US interests abroad: Iran might target Israeli or even US diplomatic missions outside the region. This method would risk involving third countries and escalate tensions on an international scale.

Proxy warfare: Iran might escalate its indirect conflict against Israel by activating its network of allied militant groups across the region. This includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, various militias in Syria, and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. These groups could increase their attacks against Israeli interests, offering Iran plausible deniability and minimizing direct engagement.

Cyber attacks: Iran has increasingly invested in its cyber capabilities. It could choose to disrupt Israeli critical infrastructure through cyber means, which could be seen as a less bloody form of retaliation but equally disruptive.

Inciting uprisings: Iran could leverage its influence to incite uprisings against Israeli control in Palestinian territories, hoping to destabilize internal Israeli security dynamics without direct military engagement.

US drops head to Middle EastThe United States is sending additional assets to the region to enhance regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces, according to a US defence official in Washington. The US already maintains a significant military presence in the Middle East and provides substantial military assistance to Israel.

Following Iran’s threats of retaliation, Israel has strengthened its air defences and suspended leave for combat units. US President Joe Biden dispatched General Michael Kurilla, head of US Central Command, to Israel for discussions. After meeting with Kurilla on Friday, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the strong bond between Israel and the United States.

“Our enemies think that they can pull apart Israel and the United States, but the opposite is true — they are bringing us together and strengthening our ties,” Gallant said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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