Iran’s retaliation against Israel’s killing of senior military leaders was a spectacular aerial display that lit up the skies over Israel and the West Bank.
However, military analysts suggest that it was a meticulously planned performance rather than a destructive attack.
The drones and missiles launched by Iran were intended to create a dramatic effect while causing minimal harm, according to defense officials and experts. Similar to their response in 2020, Iran provided ample warning before the strikes in retaliation for the U.S. killing of Gen. Qassim Suleimani.
The attack, triggered by airstrikes on an Iranian Embassy building in Syria, was orchestrated in a way that allowed Israeli and American defenses to adjust, resulting in limited damage on the ground.
Most of Iran’s missiles and drones missed their targets intentionally, serving as a warning without escalating into a full-blown war.
Iran’s strategic approach aimed to deter Israel without provoking a larger conflict, emphasizing caution over effectiveness, according to sources within the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
The aftermath of the attack could potentially escalate tensions between Israel, Iran, and the U.S., despite efforts to avoid further confrontation.
President Biden has conveyed to Israeli leaders the U.S.’s commitment to defense while urging restraint in responding to Iran. The successful defense against the Iranian attack was seen as a strategic victory that may not necessitate further retaliation.
Israel’s ability to protect its residents from airstrikes was demonstrated through the use of advanced defense systems like the Iron Dome and Arrow 3.
The events of that Saturday night highlighted the complex dynamics between Iran, Israel, and the U.S., raising concerns about the potential for further escalation.
2024-04-15 21:49:35
Original from www.nytimes.com