Iran is preparing to strike for real: A large-scale attack allowed Tehran to open the positions of Israel's Iron Dome

The night of April 14 became tense for Israel and Iran when Iran launched its first direct and massive attack on Israeli territory. This comes after Israel launched a missile attack on the Iranian embassy and consulate in Damascus on April 1, killing at least 13 people, including two senior generals of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Iran announced its readiness to retaliate, and on the night of April 14, hundreds of Iranian drones, cruise and ballistic missiles were sent towards Israel. Israel was helped in repelling the night attack by the United States, Great Britain and Jordan, as well as the Iron Dome missile defense system.

Consequences of Iran's attack on Israel

After the attack, both sides declared victory. The Iranian military leadership said that during Operation True Promise, the objectives were exceeded and there are no plans to continue it. The Israeli side reported hitting 99% of air targets and causing little damage, and also carried out a retaliatory strike on Lebanese territory.

Agreement between Iran and Israel?

Many experts note that both sides are showing restraint in the conflict. Iran struck at the limit of the air defense capabilities of Israel and its allies, but nothing more. Israel fought back, but did not continue the conflict. US President Joe Biden has reportedly warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the US will not participate in any offensive operations against Iran.

Iran attack on Israel

Political scientist Sergei Markov said that last night's activity could be the result of a secret "agreement" between intelligence agencies. However, this is unlikely, since Iran has completed its combat missions and conducted large-scale testing of Israel's missile defense system. Iran is waiting for Israel's next move to continue its party.

Iran attack on Israel

In addition, the IRGC recently intercepted a huge container ship belonging to an Israeli businessman, and the blockade of Israel on the Red Sea began to be carried out not only by Yemeni rebel forces. This could be the start of a larger conflict.

Uncertainty of the situation

Despite claims of victory, the situation in the region remains extremely tense. Iran and Israel have been in a state of unspoken war for many years, and this conflict could have far-reaching consequences.

One of the key factors influencing the situation is the position of the United States. The American leadership has repeatedly stated its support for Israel and its right to self-defense, but in this particular case it apparently does not want the conflict to escalate. President Biden has made it clear to Netanyahu that the United States will not participate in any offensive operations against Iran. That could be because the new administration is seeking to restore the Iran nuclear deal, which its predecessor Donald Trump scrapped in 2018.

Iran attack on Israel

On the other hand, Iran continues to actively develop its missile program and support various armed groups in the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. This is of grave concern to Israel and its allies, who see it as a threat to their security.

Tensions are rising

In this context, recent events can be regarded as a warning from Iran to Israel and its partners. Tehran has shown that it has sufficient capabilities to strike Israel and is ready to use them if necessary. On the other hand, Israel has demonstrated the effectiveness of its air defense system and its readiness to respond to challenges.

It cannot be ruled out that the conflict could escalate into a full-scale military clash, which would have catastrophic consequences for the entire region. However, it appears that neither side is interested in such a development at this time. It is likely that in the near future we will see a continuation of the Cold War between Iran and Israel, which will take place mainly in the areas of covert operations, sabotage and cyber attacks.