In the aftermath of Irans missile strike on Israel (which happened roughly half a year ago) Iranian state media has been showcasing the countrys military capabilities. This display comes as Tehran braces for Israels potential retaliation
State TV has been airing footage of missiles flying over Israeli cities‚ while hard-line newspapers warn of a “doomsday scenario“ if Israel strikes back. However despite these efforts to project strength the depth of the crisis for Iran is evident: Israel is dealing heavy blows to Tehrans allies in the region making it more vulnerable to attack
Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi‚ during a recent visit to Baghdad stated “We have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region. We are not afraid of war we are ready for war‚ but at the same time we dont want war“
We have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region
Analysts suggest that Irans leaders view Israel as increasingly unrestrained as it moves through the region ignoring pleas by the Biden administration to scale back bombing and protect civilians in places such as Gaza and Beirut. In recent months Israeli forces have:
- Assassinated leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas
- Invaded southern Lebanon
- Sent more troops into the Gaza Strip
The missile attack on Israel (about 6 months ago) was Irans retaliation for the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran (roughly 15 months ago) and Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah in Beirut (approximately 5 months ago)
The potential Israeli response could further damage Irans struggling economy. Already there are long lines at gas stations in the capital‚ and some residents are stocking up on food. Decades of US sanctions corruption and mismanagement have hobbled Irans economy which remains highly dependent on oil exports
The prospect of Israeli strikes has triggered debate among opponents of the Iranian government. Some hope a military strike will facilitate the downfall of the countrys leadership while others warn that supporting Israel is dangerous and that any escalation will bring more suffering to Irans population
Meanwhile supporters of President Masoud Pezeshkian (elected about 3 months ago) are concerned that tensions with Israel a key US ally will undermine his administrations early outreach to Western nations after years of isolation. The situation remains tense as both sides await the next move