Illusion of immunity shattered
By Amir
Mousavi
Middle East affairs expert
There had been taboo about Israel’s military power, seemingly unbreakable, especially given its long-standing reliance on the backing of the United States and Europe. As a result of such unwavering support a coalition has been forged against independent nations, perpetuating oppression and injustice upon the beleaguered people of Palestine for decades. Iran’s military retaliation against Israel’s terrorist act shattered the illusion of Israel’s iron immunity.
The significance of Iran’s action lies in the fact that, despite decades of conflict between Israel and Arab nations, no independent country had dared to launch a serious assault against Israel. Israel’s atrocities in the Gaza Strip over the past seven months have inflicted severe damage upon the regime. Whereas previously, any critique of Zionism worldwide, particularly in Europe, was met with swift condemnation under the guise of “anti-Semitism”. Now, with the veil lifted on the true nature of Zionism and its genocidal actions in Gaza, many Jews around the globe have raised their voices in protest, and condemnation of the belligerent Israeli regime has reverberated throughout Europe.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has now shattered the barrier to attacking Israel, plunging the Israelis once more into deep fear. Perhaps the taste of living in constant insecurity and terror will serve as a stark reminder that this has been the plight imposed upon the Palestinian people for decades.
While the Israeli regime had previously issued threats against the Islamic Republic, Iran’s missile and drone strike against this regime clarified Tehran’s deterrent power to both Israel and its allies. Hence, it can be inferred that Iran has accomplished its primary objective of punishing Israel and showcasing its deterrent capability. Presently, it appears the Israelis are not contemplating a direct attack on Iran, as US diplomatic efforts have been concentrated on dissuading Israel from retaliating against Iran’s strike.
Since October 7, Israel’s allies, spearheaded by the US, have provided full military and political support to Israel, including deploying warships and aircraft to the region as a warning to Iran against engaging in war with Israel. Although Iran had stated from the outset its lack of intent to initiate conflict, Israel’s transgression of crossing the red line by targeting the Iranian consulate in Syria compelled Tehran to deliver a decisive response to Netanyahu.
Following Iran’s strike, Israeli sources have attempted to downplay the impact of the blows inflicted upon them, perhaps as a means to rationalize their reluctance to retaliate against Iran’s attack. They are well aware that the April 14 assault merely showcased a fraction of Iran’s defense capabilities, utilized not to wage war against Israel but to administer punishment.