Israel’s tactics against Iran: key insights so far

Brett McGurk, a CNN global affairs analyst and former senior national security official, discusses the unprecedented Israeli military operation against Iran, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.” This operation represents a comprehensive and multi-faceted assault, incorporating airstrikes, sabotage, and on-ground operatives targeting key military figures within Iran. It notably resulted in the swift elimination of top Iranian military commanders, creating chaos and fear among Iranian officials, who now confront both significant military losses and the imperative to project stability amid turmoil. The operation is also a strategic maneuver aimed at pressuring Iran to negotiate a halt to its nuclear aspirations.

McGurk emphasizes that Israel’s actions demonstrate full intelligence and air superiority over Iran, completely dismantling vital command structures in just hours. This situation places Iran in a precarious position regarding its response options, as the leaders poised to coordinate any retaliatory measures are now deceased. Despite the limitations, Iran still holds capabilities, potentially relying on missiles, drones, and proxy forces; however, its response may be severely hindered by the loss of command and control.

The analyst points to Iran’s strategic miscalculations following the October 7 Hamas attacks, which fundamentally altered the regional balance. Instead of weakening Israel, these actions led Iran to conduct further aggressive moves, including fortifying support for regional proxies against Israel and escalating its nuclear program. The backdrop of these geopolitical shifts has given Israel the rationale to respond decisively, especially as international bodies highlighted Iran’s breaches of nuclear commitments.

McGurk underscores that the recent developments signify Israel’s resolve to address threats proactively, especially concerning Iran’s nuclear ambitions. With the support of the United States and a reshaped regional landscape—marked by weakened adversaries and diminished Iranian influence—Israel found a unique opportunity to act. However, the ongoing conflict, characterized by mutual missile exchanges, indicates that hostilities will not subside soon.

To resolve this tumultuous situation, McGurk argues that Iran must abandon its nuclear pursuits, while Hamas must cease hostilities and release hostages. Until these conditions are met, Israel will persist in defending its national security, with unwavering support from the United States. This dynamic, initiated by Iranian and Hamas aggression, is fostering an increasingly hostile environment that has serious implications for the Middle East’s stability.

Source: CNN

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