On Thursday local time, Israeli Defense Force officials revealed that with the ongoing Syrian unrest and setbacks for the Iran-supported "resistance arc," the Israeli Air Force is preparing for possible strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The military believes that now is a "historic opportunity" to address this threat once and for all.
The Situation in Syria Provides Opportunity for Israeli Military Action
In recent years, conflicts between Israel and Iran and its supported proxy organizations have been frequent. The Israeli military states that with the Assad regime in Syria on the verge of collapse and further fragmentation of internal forces, the Israeli Air Force has destroyed over 90% of Syria's stockpile of surface-to-air missiles and has targeted key military assets, including missile depots, drone facilities, and weapon manufacturing plants. The IDF claims these actions have effectively weakened Syria and Iran's military presence in the region.
Strategic Advantage of the Israeli Air Force
After destroying most of Syria's air defense systems, the Israeli Air Force now operates almost freely over Syrian skies. Unlike in the past, when operations needed to avoid Damascus cautiously, the IDF can now fly directly over the Syrian capital and deploy drones for reconnaissance without fear of being shot down by air defenses. Military experts suggest this aerial advantage offers Israel more strategic options and may pave the way for strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The US-Israel Alliance and the Iranian Nuclear Threat
Despite Iran's continuous denial of any military intent behind its nuclear program, the United States and Israel maintain that Iran has not abandoned its ambition to develop nuclear weapons. The Israeli Defense Forces believe the degradation of Iran-supported proxy strength and international pressure may prompt Iran to accelerate its nuclear agenda. Israeli officials warn that Iran's numerous nuclear facilities are hidden deep within mountain ranges and are heavily fortified, yet the IDF is ready to act.
Western Media: Historic Opportunity Emerges
Western media commentaries highlight that the Syrian unrest and the Israeli Air Force's operational advantage present a "unique historic opportunity" to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat. For over two decades, Israel has repeatedly warned of the potential threat posed by Iranian nuclear facilities, and the current regional situation may offer Israel a chance to achieve its long-term strategic goals.
Potential Further Actions Ahead
The Israeli military has recently formulated military plans targeting the strategic weapon reserves of Syria, contingent upon the victory of the Syrian opposition forces. These measures indicate that Israel is attempting to solidify its military dominance in the Middle East while reducing Iran's regional influence.
Regardless of how the situation develops, the tension in the Middle East could further escalate, and the international community will closely monitor Israel's potential actions and their repercussions.
