By Karen James
Tensions between Iran and Israel are reaching a boiling point, with the possibility of a fresh war in Gaza or even a nuclear world conflict, warned Middle East analysts. Following Iran’s recent aerial barrage of missiles and drones at Israel, security experts have raised concerns that Iranian-backed proxy forces are prepared to invade Gaza, sparking a second front in the ongoing war.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war cabinet has issued a warning of a “strategic but painful” revenge strike, while world leaders are urging caution to prevent an uncontrollable war from spiraling out of control in the Middle East.
In response to Iran’s attack, Israel launched a limited strike on an air base in the city of Isfahan. Reports suggest that this could be a precursor to a major response targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
There have also been reports of explosions in Iraq and Syria, targeting Iranian proxy terror groups in the region. Professor Anthony Glees has stated that if Israel were to attack Iranian nuclear sites, Iran could retaliate by unleashing its network of proxy forces to wreak havoc on Israel. This, in turn, could drastically increase the chances of a wider war in the Middle East, and even the potential for a Third World War, warned Glees.
Former British Army commander and military analyst Hamish de Bretton-Gordon explained that Israel’s recent strike in Iran will likely force Iran to resort to its terror groups and proxies. Dr. Anahita Motazed Rad, an expert on Iran, also suggested that Tehran may order its puppet armies to respond to an Israeli strike.
Iran’s recent army day parade showcased its military might and included threats against Israel. Iranian President Raisi warned that even the smallest action from Israel would elicit a fierce response.
The Iranian regime has also threatened to use a weapon it has never used before, leading to concerns over its nuclear capabilities. While Iran has made clear it will respond to Israeli strikes, it may not do so explicitly, leaving room for potential escalation and a further deterioration of the situation in the Middle East.
