Israel’s Air Strikes on Iran: A New Phase in Regional Conflict

• Israel’s recent air strikes on Iran have sparked a new phase in the regional conflict between Israel and Iran.

• Israel has previously targeted Iran’s nuclear program and killed its nuclear scientists.

• The strike targeted Iran’s air defence, missile and drone manufacturing, and storage facilities in at least three provinces, including Tehran.

• Iran initially played down the impact, claiming it had successfully thwarted the attack.

• Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, stated it would use all available tools to deliver a definite and effective response to the Zionist regime.

• Israel has an edge in long-distance warfare due to its U.S. protection and supplies, while Iran is practically on its own.

• Iran’s risk appetite has increased this year with two direct attacks on Israel.

• Iran’s military may continue to bleed Israel by a thousand cuts, and in an all-out war, it could weaponise the critical arteries of energy trade in the Gulf.

• Iran should show strategic restraint in the larger interests of itself and the region.

• For stability in West Asia, both sides should avoid directly targeting each other.