New Delhi: The tension between Iran and Israel continues to escalate, with both nations engaging in retaliatory actions. In April and then again in October, Iran launched around 200 missiles in an attack on Israel, prompting Israel to respond by targeting Iran’s military installations. However, the situation shows no sign of calming down, and tensions are on the rise. After Iran’s attack, Israel intended to launch a major strike on Tehran, but U.S. President Joe Biden limited support to a restricted response, even threatening to reduce assistance if Israel took more extensive action. Under pressure, Israel conducted a limited strike on Iran.
Change in Attitude with Trump’s Return
A month later, there has been a shift in the situation. President Biden’s party lost in the U.S. election, signaling Donald Trump’s return to power. This indicates that Biden’s pressure may no longer hold. Reports in American media suggest that Biden is trying to convey his perspective to Trump, but Trump has traditionally taken a hard stance on Iran.
Suspicion on Iran in Trump’s Assassination Attempt
Recently, an investigation following a lethal attack on Trump during the U.S. election suggested Iran’s involvement, further straining relations. Former CIA Chief Leon Panetta remarked that with Trump’s return to power, Israel would likely have more freedom to act against Iran, increasing the possibility of war between Israel and Iran.
Concern in the Muslim World
Following Trump’s victory in the U.S., concerns are growing in the Muslim world, fearing a large-scale operation against Iran. Leaders from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, hope that peace will prevail in the Middle East, despite the heightened threat of war due to Israel-Iran tensions. Although some countries in the Middle East anticipated Trump’s return, they are now concerned that he might give Israel unchecked freedom to act against Iran.
Concerns About Trump’s New Cabinet
There is also concern over the composition of Trump’s new cabinet, which is expected to further increase pressure on Iran once he assumes office. Trump has nominated Elise Stefanik as the U.S. representative at the United Nations, Mike Waltz as National Security Advisor, and Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, indicating a harder line on Iran. Stefanik has already advocated for strong action against Iran, while Rubio has expressed that Israel should have the freedom to respond to any potential threats.
Israel’s Direct Threats
Israel has now openly issued threats to Iran. Israel’s new Defense Minister under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran of potential strikes on its nuclear facilities during his first meeting with the military’s General Staff. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the threat to Iran’s nuclear facilities is now more serious than ever.
What Will Israel Do About Iran?
Now, it becomes essential to understand Israel’s next moves regarding Iran. Will it pursue a Gaza-like operation, or does Israel have a new strategy? Prime Minister Netanyahu has provided some insight, directly addressing the Iranian public with a message instead of engaging with Iran’s government.
A special message from me to the Iranian people: there’s one thing Khamenei’s regime fears more than Israel. It’s you — the people of Iran. Don’t lose hope.
پیام ویژهای از من برای مردم ایران: یک چیز هست که رژیم خامنهای بیش از اسرائیل از آن میترسد. آن شما هستید — مردم ایران.… pic.twitter.com/iADxSjNXCs
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) November 12, 2024
Netanyahu’s Strategic Move
In a strong message, Netanyahu criticized the Khamenei regime’s policies and urged the Iranian people to be aware of their rights and how the country’s resources are being used. He claimed that the Iranian government currently fears its own people more than Israel, urging Iranians to maintain hope. Netanyahu pointed out that Iran spent $2.3 billion on missile attacks that caused minor damage to Israel but heavily impacted the Iranian people.
Call for Rebellion Among Iranians?
In his message to the Iranian people, Netanyahu also encouraged them to fight for their rights and freedom and to resist the injustices of their government, hinting at Israel’s future plans regarding Iran.
Why Iran is Alarmed by Trump’s Team
Trump’s cabinet choices indicate strong U.S. support for Israel’s actions against Iran. Trump has appointed Elise Stefanik as U.N. representative, Mike Waltz as National Security Advisor, and Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, each advocating for firm measures against Iran. Stefanik, even before her nomination, tweeted support for strict actions against Iran, while Rubio has publicly stated that Israel should have the freedom to counter any threats.
Three Conversations Between Netanyahu and Trump Post-Election
Netanyahu revealed that he has had three conversations with Trump since his election victory. He mentioned that Trump shares Israel’s approach, particularly concerning Iran, and hinted at the likelihood of resumed sanctions against Iran’s nuclear program. These sanctions were slightly relaxed under Biden.
No Response from Iran
So far, there has been no response from Iran regarding these developments. Many in Iran are unhappy with Khamenei’s regime, which has imposed strict Sharia law since the 1979 revolution. The ongoing restrictions and extreme measures imposed by the regime have often faced resistance from segments of the Iranian population.
